Exhibitions

vehicles of the border patrol

When the Border Patrol was first founded in 1924, the primary mode of transportation was by horseback. The Service provided a badge and revolver, but recruits furnished their own horse and saddle. Additionally, the Service provided oats and hay for the horses, along with a salary of $1,680 for the inspectors.

As funds became available, vehicles were provided along with classes on how to drive and maintain the vehicles. In the 1930s, vehicles with horse trailers became available, but the trend toward all vehicle operations became prevalent and horse patrol units became obsolete, only to be revived in the 1970s. The iconic sea foam green color was established in the 1950s, and remained the primary vehicle color until a new color scheme in 1995. With the move to the Department of Homeland Security, and the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, a new vehicle color scheme was adopted and for the first time in 55 years and Border Patrol emblem was not displayed on a Border Patrol vehicle.

Agents patrol the border in vehicles, boats, aircraft, and afoot. In some areas, the Border Patrol employs horses, all-terrain motorcycles, bicycles, and snowmobiles. Pictures of early vehicles, and some Border Patrol vehicles are on display in the museum.

The Border Patrol Museum, the only one in the United States, receives no federal funds and relies on donations to keep our doors open. If you are able, please consider donating to help sustain your museum.