The Saanich Police Department was formed shortly after municipal incorporation in 1906.  In its infancy, the department consisted of one member, John Jabez Russell, who was appointed as constable and sanitary inspector.  At this time, the Municipality of Saanich consisted largely of rural farmland and was sparsely populated.  Due to its rural nature, Cst. Russell worked from home, patrolled the area on horseback and responded to complaints received predominantly by letter. Over the following years, the department grew to include a Chief Constable as well as several other constables and a two-room police office in the Municipal Hall was provided for the burgeoning police force.  Clad in high-neck khaki tunics, riding breeches, hat, and leather leggings, members became affectionately known by “the Saanich Cowboys,” a nickname the neighbouring Victoria Police members were said to use while referring to Saanich members.  Eventually, advances in technology allowed the department to acquire motorized vehicles in which to patrol the surrounding area which saw horses give way to cars and motorcycles.