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© Courtesy of Derby City Council |
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Improving a prisoner's lot in Derby |
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In early 19th Century Derby, the issue of gaol conditions and prisoner treatment was as contentious as it is today. The stark differences between Friar Gate County Gaol and its replacement at Vernon Street reflect a major shift in ideology. From little more than holding pens for the courts or scaffold, the modern-day concept of prisons as places for criminals to "serve their time" was born.
The Bloody Code
During the period known as the Bloody Code (1770-1830) you could be hanged in England for a whole range of minor crimes. Capital offences included stealing cheeses, stealing geese and breaking into a weaving shop.
Just how does a hangman get his job?
Around the year 1660, John Crosland was found guilty of the capital offence of horse stealing. To escape the noose himself, he agreed to execute his partners in crime - his father and brother! His skill evidently impressed officials, who appointed him as the county executioner. |
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The prevalence of executions and other forms of public punishment was reflected in the gaols of the time. Gaols such as Friar Gate (1756) were designed to hold criminals awaiting trial or punishment, rather than incarcerate them for punitive lengths of time. The idea of separating and reforming criminals away from law-abiding society did not exist.
Cramped and lawless
The plain, brick building of Friar Gate Gaol, designed by architect Mr Irons of Warwick, was incredibly overcrowded. The gaol had seven cells, each measuring 7 ft by 7 ft, 4 inches wide and 8 ft 3 inches high, with precious little ventilation. In 1819, records show that these seven cells housed 69 prisoners, a level of overcrowding that was all too common.
© Courtesy of Derby City Council
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In 1782, before fixed gaoler salaries were introduced, Friar Gate gaoler Blyth Simpson managed to take home a profit equal to double his salary by the sale of liquor to prisoners, resulting in a staggering level of drunkenness! The day room saw convicted murderers mixing with those awaiting trial for petty crimes, and communicating over walls with those held at the House of Correction.
Towards a new gaol
Friar Gate's poor design and horrendous conditions did not escape criticism and minor improvements were carried out. In 1774 an advertisement was placed in the Derby Mercury looking for "persons willing to make a bath and two rooms" for prisoners at the gaol. The walls were now whitewashed once a year and a surgeon was employed. However, gaol fever and overcrowding continued.
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