Academy’s First Class

Early training was held in Room 5231 at the Department of Justice, then home to the FBI.

A Milestone in Police Training
The First National Academy Class

07/29/10

Who Attended: Twenty-three police officers from around the nation. (See list below)

Where the Training was Held: In Room 5231 of the Justice Department (and then FBI) Headquarters on Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C. The long and narrow room was aptly nicknamed the “wind tunnel.” Firearms training took place at the Marine Corps base in Quantico, Virginia, near where the current National Academy is held. 

How Long It Lasted: A total of 12 weeks.

What They Studied: A range of subjects similar to the new FBI agents of the day—forensic science, statistics, records and report writing, investigations, enforcement and regulatory procedure, tests and practical experiences; police administration and organization, and firearms training and first aid.

Challenges: Although the training was free, the sponsoring police agency paid travel costs and lodging. This put some hardship on the officers attending. One had to mortgage his home to attend. Another was called “The Loner” by his classmates because he avoided their company at meal time; they soon learned he was getting by on just 35 cents a day so he could support his family back home. (In the late 1960s, Congress began providing funds to the FBI for all aspects of travel and board, making it easier for any law enforcement officer to attend the academy.)  

Graduation: Took place on October 19, 1935, with the attorney general and Director Hoover on hand to present certificates and offer congratulations.

The First Graduating Class:

Class Counselors: