Walking the Beat — The Night Watch

By the 1200s, law enforcement in English cities and towns has grown to incorporate the use of bailiffs or, essentially, night watchmen. The men of the town take turns patrolling the streets at night, awakening the sleeping population if fire breaks out or they spot a thief in action. Criminals apprehended during the bailiff's shift are turned over to the constable for trial the next day. In 1285, the Statute of Winchester mandates the implementation of both a day ward and a night watch system. Among other requirements, citizens are commanded to keep weapons in their homes in order to answer the call to arms.

The Country Man and Death Master of the Lubeck Bible, 1489