Fred Koepke was appointed Olympia’s motorcycle police officer in 1912. He was chosen in part for his familiarity with motorcycles and their repair. He’s pictured here in front of the Masonic Hall on Main Street (Capitol Way). His motorcycle was a Yale 7 HP (horsepower)
Photograph taken around 1912, Courtesy State Capital Museum collection, Washington State Historical Society catalog C1961.498.22
Text © Deborah Ross and The Olympian 2022