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BRIXTON WASH-HOUSE
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BRIXTON WASH-HOUSE
A scene in the wash-house in Brixton Prison Date: 1860
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Media ID 20149087
© Bubblepunk
1860 Brixton Laundry Prison Prisoners Prisons Wash Washer Washerwomen 1860s
EDITORS COMMENTS
Brixton Prison Wash-House, 1860: A Scene of Daily Life in a Victorian Female Penitentiary This evocative photograph captures a moment in the daily routine of Brixton Prison's female inmates during the mid-19th century. The image, taken in 1860, depicts the wash-house, a crucial facility within the prison walls where prisoners were tasked with washing their own clothes as well as those of their fellow inmates. The scene is one of industriousness and order, with women of various ages and backgrounds working together to complete their chores. The wash-house was an essential part of prison life, serving both practical and disciplinary functions. Prisoners were expected to maintain cleanliness not only for their own health but also to instill a sense of responsibility and self-reliance. The wash-house provided an opportunity for inmates to interact with one another, forming a sense of community amidst the harsh prison environment. The photograph reveals the stark reality of life in a Victorian prison. The women are dressed in plain, uniform garments, their faces expressionless as they focus on their tasks. The wash-house itself is sparsely furnished, with wooden tubs and iron mangles standing ready for use. The large windows allow natural light to filter in, creating a subtle contrast between the mundane routine and the outside world. This image offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives of women prisoners during the 1860s. It underscores the importance of understanding the social and historical context of prison life during this period, revealing the complex interplay between punishment, rehabilitation, and the everyday experiences of incarcerated individuals.
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