BPD Remembers: On Saturday, July 4, 1925, Lieutenant Benjamin Alexander was killed in the line of duty during the Pickwick Club building collapse on that day 100 years ago. Lt. Alexander was trailing and tracking a jewelry thief inside the building when it collapsed. This incident claimed the lives of 44 people.
Lieutenant Alexander was 42 years old at the time of his death and had served with the Boston Police Department for 16 years. On this day, we take a moment to honor and remember Benjamin’s service and sacrifice, as well as the hardships and heartache felt by the family he left behind, which included his wife and six children.
“July 4, 1925 marks one of Boston’s most tragic disasters in history. Forty four
people died in the collapse of the Pickwick Club at 6 Beach Street, Chinatown.
My grandfather, Benjamin Alexander, Lieutenant Inspector of the Bureau of
Criminal Investigation had just turned forty two years old. Benjamin was on duty
tracking a known jewel thief.
The loss of Benjamin to his wife, Fannie, and six children was devastating, a void
that could never be filled. Benjamin became a legend to his six children and
grandchildren.
My father was eight years old when he lost his Dad. However, he did have a few
memories of Benjamin: Strength, bravery and service to protect people.
Gone but never forgotten.”
– Lisa Alexander Krance (Granddaughter)
Lieutenant Alexander was laid to rest at the Woburn Jewish Cemetery in Woburn, Massachusetts. His name is located on the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington D.C. on Panel 14, East Line 8. His name is also forever engraved on the Hero Wall at Boston Police Headquarters and the Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial at the State House in Boston.
In Boston, a Hero Sign has been placed in his honor at the former location of the Pickwick Club near Beach Street at Washington Street in Chinatown. The sign is to forever honor the memory of a man who gave his life in service to his city. If you ever find yourself in the area and you happen to see his Hero Sign, kindly take a moment to honor and acknowledge the service and sacrifice of a brave man who died protecting and serving his city.