GRAUL, JACOB

GRAUL, JACOB (5 Nov. 1868-14 Feb. 1938), Cleveland policeman (1897-1930) and chief of police (1922-30), was born in Cleveland to John and Catherine Graul. He learned the plumbing trade, but grew bored and gained appointment to the CLEVELAND POLICE DEPT., joining with the intention of becoming chief and working methodically to achieve that ambition. Lacking the brawn, deep voice, and other attributes characteristic of police force members, he made his reputation as a plainclothesman at the Central Station and later the detective bureau.

Graul's career was uneventful. Through hard work, he rose through the ranks: sergeant (1903), lieutenant (1909), captain (1912), deputy inspector (1918). He was obedient to every order, which he later demanded from those under him. He was one of few policemen to remain loyal to FRED KOHLER when Kohler was ousted as police chief in 1913. When Kohler became mayor in 1922, he installed Graul as chief. Although Graul maintained a reputation for honesty and integrity, he was often hampered by politics, as Kohler punished his opposition, rewarded his supporters, and prevented raids on slot machines and gambling spots. During the city manager years, Graul was overshadowed by Safety Director Edwin Barry, and was eased out of office by City Manager DANIEL MORGAN in 1930 with the promise of a big pension, only to see it later reduced by two-thirds. Graul married Alma Lentz on 24 Nov. 1896 and had 3 children, Alfred, Walter, and Leona (Mrs. Eldon Lewis). Graul died while serving as foreman of the grand jury and was buried in Highland Park Cemetery.