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Pentonville Prison, Islington, North London
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Pentonville Prison, Islington, North London
An aerial view of Pentonville Prison in Islington, North London. The prison was opened in 1842 as the new Model Prison, on the separate system. Inmates were housed in separate cells and not allowed to communicate with each other at any time
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Media ID 4470851
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10424912
1840s 1842 1945 Cells Crime Gaol Inmates Islington Jail L Aw Pentonville Prison Punishment Segregation Separate Separation Wing Wings
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EDITORS COMMENTS
A haunting aerial view of Pentonville Prison in Islington, North London, taken in the late 1940s, offers a unique perspective on this historic Victorian institution. Opened in 1842 as the New Model Prison, Pentonville was a groundbreaking correctional facility that introduced the separate system of confinement. This innovative approach aimed to rehabilitate inmates through isolation and individual reflection, as opposed to the harsh corporal punishments and overcrowded conditions prevalent in earlier prisons. In this image, the prison's distinct wing-like structures are arranged in a radial pattern, with each wing housing individual cells. The separate system ensured that inmates were not allowed to communicate with each other at any time, creating an environment of solitude and introspection. The prison's design was a testament to the reformist ideals of the 1840s, which sought to transform the penal system into a more humane and effective means of punishment. Pentonville Prison's history spans over a century and a half, with its most notable period being the mid-19th century. During this time, the prison gained notoriety for its strict regime and the controversial use of the treadmill as a form of punishment. The prison continued to operate under the separate system until the 1950s, when it was eventually phased out in favor of more communal living arrangements. This evocative photograph, taken in the 1940s, captures the prison in a state of quiet repose, with its wings stretching out like the arms of a fortress. The image serves as a poignant reminder of the prison's rich history and the evolving nature of the penal system. As we gaze upon this hauntingly beautiful image, we are transported back in time, offering us a glimpse into the past and the transformative power of architectural design in shaping our societal values.
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