Discover the hidden stories of Poplar Bluff's iconic McGruff the Crime Dog

The Poplar Bluff Museum tells many unknown tales of our community. I want to tell you some of those hidden tales found within the museum walls.

In the 1990’s, the “big dog” on campus was “McGruff.” He was a large dog wearing a hat and coat. No need to describe him any further because he is still famous and easily recognizable. “McGruff the Crime Dog” showed up at all the schools, fairs and community events in Poplar Bluff saying, “Take a bite out of crime.” His message resounded with all the children. Crime prevention was the lesson of the day.

The Poplar Bluff Police Department received McGruff through a grant from the National Crime Prevention Council. Probably every police officer on duty had the opportunity to play the part of McGruff.

“It was a tough job wearing the dog,” said former police detective Chuck Stratton, “but we knew it was an important job we felt had to be done. Sometimes McGruff took a real police dog with him, a dog walking a dog.”

McGruff retired after seven years on duty.

The “Crime Dog” originated in 1980. He was created by a man named Dancer Sample. A national contest was conducted to name him. The winning name was “Scruff McGruff.” A hunting dog wearing a fedora hat and trench coat portrayed him as a detective. That image won out over other Crime Dog concepts such as a Snoopy the Keystone Cop, J. Edgar Hoover as a bulldog, Superhero Wonder Dog and a Deputy Dog. The Crime Dog was a national campaign promoted by the Ad Council. “McGruff Houses” popped up nationwide as safe houses for children. He even had a NASCAR, driven by Joey Gase.

In 2022, Police Chief Mike McClain brought McGruff out of retirement. His new post is in the First Responders exhibit at the Poplar Bluff Museum. He has a commanding presence on the second floor, rivaling Smokey the Bear in the Conservation Room.

The Crime Dog’s message is still clear today, “Take a bite out of crime.” Come shake McGruff’s hand at the museum.

The museum is open free of charge and handicap accessible. It is open 1-4 p.m. Sunday at 1010 Main St. Tell them Mike sent you.

Mike Shane is a veteran, Poplar Bluff resident and board member of the Poplar Bluff Museum.