Hilary Baker served in the U.S. Army.
Superindentent Hilary Baker died as a result of contracting yellow fever during an outbreak in the city.
As the citizens fled the city due to the outbreak, Superintendent Baker stayed to assist the watchmen he was in charge of and gave aid to those affected. While doing so, he became ill and contracted the disease.
Superintendent Baker also served as mayor of the city of Philadelphia. While mayor, Superindentent Baker was tasked by the city council to appoint a police force to protect the city from vandalism and looting. He created the city's first paid, uniformed watch through an Act of Assembly on May 22nd, 1797. He initially appointed 20 watchmen for day patrols and 15 for the night.
Superintendent Baker was a Continental Army veteran of the Revolutionary War and had served with the Philadelphia Night Watch for a little more than a year.
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In tribute
I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.
Superintendent Baker gave the Philadelphia Night Watch 1 year.
Thank you for your service to the Philadelphia community. Thank you for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, brother.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
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