Age:  33
Served: 14 years
July 15, 1881, to February 28, 1895

Though appointed to the Department in 1881, Patrolman Richard Morris of 599 McMillan Street, during the reorganization of 1886, was found slightly visually impaired and unable to perform the job of Patrolman.  He was one of the most efficient and popular officers of the day and was therefore kept on as a Court Officer. 

On February 27, 1895, Mrs. Louis Stolzenberger of Central Avenue near Clark Street appeared at police headquarters asking for protection from her husband who was given to drink and believed to be driven half insane by the recent death of his only child.  That morning, he attacked her and left home vowing to do harm to her sister and others that he considered enemies.  A warrant was issued and handed to Court Officer Morris.  Officer Morris did not find him at home initially, so he waited for him.  When Stolzenberger arrived at home, he went willingly with Officer Morris.  As they descended the steps from the second floor, Stolzenberger suddenly jerked away and shot Officer Morris at close range.  He fled with the pistol in his hand and came across Patrolman Fred Shafer.  After firing once at Shafer and preparing to fire another, Patrolman Shafer shot and killed Stolzenberger.  Officer Morris was rushed to City Hospital. 

Though conscious, he died the next day, February 28, 1895.

Court Officer Morris left a wife.  His funeral was held at his home and he was buried at Calvary Cemetery in Evanston.

If you have further information, artifacts, or pictures of this officer, please contact the Museum Director at Director@GCPHS.com.