Research Forum

Resident of Weston sent to Shepton Mallet prison
published by on Sat, 13/08/2016 - 15:25

I am researching the Jakeway family of Weston-super-Mare and have discovered Mary Ann Jakeway convicted of theft in 1880 and sentenced to 9 months hard labour in Shepton Mallet prison. I realise that Shepton Mallet is outside the boundary of Weston-super-Mare FHS but as it was the destination for many Westonians convicted of crime, I wonder if anyone has any information concerning the conditions and/or regime for women prisoners in Shepton Mallet gaol at that time.

Any suggestions gratefully received.

Comments ..

Submitted by Pat Hase on Sun, 14/08/2016 - 15:16

There is quite a bit online about the history of this prison which only closed in 2013.

Francis Disney, who had been a Warder at Shepton Mallet, published a book entitled "Shepton Mallet Prison - 390 years of Prison Regime" in 1992. Chapter 15 - dealing briefly with conditions in the latter part of the 19th Century - contains this passage: "Female prisoners sentenced to hard labour were to pick not less than three pounds of oakum per day." It also lists the clothing of female inmates and a typical daily routine for prisoners.

Submitted by on Mon, 15/08/2016 - 16:07

Many thanks for this useful info, Pat. I shall try to borrow Francis Disney's book through the inter-library loan system.

Best wishes

Julie