Ira Brown, called Tyler’s first Black policeman in a headline

Claimed first per KETKUndated, sources differ (see the note). Card 163 of 165.

KETK’s headline called Ira Brown, who died in 2017 at 91, Tyler’s first African American policeman, while its story said he was one of the first African Americans to become a Tyler policeman.

A coworker said he could not patrol the south part of town.

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Note

The city’s 2000 documentation says Tyler’s first African American officers were hired in the 1940s.

Sources

KETK: First African American Tyler policeman, Ira Brown, 91, passes away (Feb. 25, 2017)digital-release.ketk.comFirst African American Tyler policeman, Ira Brown, 91, passes awayBrown is known for being one of the first African Americans to become a Tyler policeman.He couldn't patrol in the south part of town.

Checked October 15, 2026. How the cards are filed

Related cards

No. 122
AFRICAN AMERICAN POLICE — TYLER
The city’s survey dates Tyler’s first Black officers to the 1940s
CLAIMED FIRSTThe 1940s, sources differper the city’s survey1. Tyler (Tex.). Police Department. 2. African American police--Texas. I. Title.
No. 162
HISPANIC AMERICANS — POLITICS — TYLER
Gustavo Ramirez, as of 2019 the only Hispanic elected to the council
CLAIMED FIRSTUndatedper KETK1. Ramirez, Gustavo. 2. Tyler (Tex.). City Council. I. Title.
No. 165
AFRICAN AMERICAN JUDGES — SMITH COUNTY
Quincy Beavers, Smith County’s first Black judge
FIRSTUndated1. Beavers, Quincy. 2. Justices of the peace--Texas. I. Title.

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Sources

Related cards

The city’s survey dates Tyler’s first Black officers to the 1940s

Gustavo Ramirez, as of 2019 the only Hispanic elected to the council

Quincy Beavers, Smith County’s first Black judge