Frank Eyman is best known as the longest-serving Arizona State Prison Warden, serving from 1955 to 1972. He is also credited with bringing the Fraternal Order of Police to Arizona.

Frank was born in 1898 in Joliet, Illinois. He served in WWI in the 17th Horse Cavalry stationed in Douglas, AZ. After returning to Illinois, he took a job as a Railroad Special Agent, and in 1929, he was subsequently appointed a Cook County Sheriff’s deputy. In July 1930, Frank moved to Tucson due to his wife’s health and joined the Tucson Police Department (TPD). Perhaps the most significant event of his career in Tucson was his participation in the arrest of the Dillinger gang in 1934. During WWII, he served as a Chief Warrant Officer with the Navy at the Long Beach Naval Shipyard, making him a veteran of both World Wars. He retired in 1950 from TPD after a 20-year career and followed it with two two-year terms as the Sheriff of Pima County.

In 1955 Frank was appointed the Warden for the Arizona State Prison System by Governor McFarland and moved to Florence, AZ. During his 17 years of service, he had a reputation as a no-nonsense warden. Frank was also an avid golfer and an accomplished horseman. According to his tribute in The Journal (winter issue, 1984), “He made a very commanding figure as he led the colorful State Prison Band on his beautiful Quarter Horse mare with his silver-mounted riding outfit each fall in the annual Junior Parada parade in Florence”. Frank served the State of Arizona as Warden for 17 years, retiring in 1972. Frank passed away on June 13th, 1984 at the age of 86.

Frank had a saddle custom-made for him in 1958, which was on display at the Eyman Complex of the ADCRR for many years. This special saddle was donated to the PCHS Museum this year and is currently on display in our Second Territorial Prison display. Stop by and see it for yourself!