Councilwoman Hamilton Invites The Community To Memorial Tribute For Officer Bertha Par Whedbee

Photo: Louisville Metro Council

On Tuesday, November 13th a special ceremony will pay tribute to Officer Bertha Par Whedbee, who in 1922 became the first African American female to join the Louisville Police Department.

“Officer Whedbee served the citizens of Louisville with dignity and honor,” says Councilwoman Cheri Bryant Hamilton (D-5). “Until now, she has rested in an unmarked grave in the Louisville Cemetery and on Tuesday she will receive recognition that is long overdue.”

Councilwoman Hamilton is encouraging everyone to attend a special ceremony paying tribute to Officer Whedbee beginning at 10:00am. The ceremony will feature the Louisville Metro Police Honor Guard and the Louisville Police Pipe and Drums.

Officer Whedbee was married to Dr. Ellis Whedbee who was one of the founders of the old Red Cross Hospital. Since 1960, she and her husband have rested in an unmarked grave. Active and retired officers of the Louisville Police Community have joined other officers and citizens to erect a monument to their service.

“We owe a special thanks to all men and women who walk our streets to keep us safe. Officer Whedbee, like all the officers who have followed her, is someone to be honored for their duty and service to our community. She was a trailblazer leading the way for others,” says Hamilton.

The Louisville Cemetery is located at 1339 Poplar Level road.

For more information about the tribute to Officer Bertha Par Whedbee, contact Chuck Cooper at 502-744-1704. Cooper is a former 2nd Police Division, now retired, spearheaded the memorial tribute to the late Officer Whedbee.