Prisoner making shoes, Millbank Prison
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Prisoner making shoes, Millbank Prison
Prisoner at work making shoes in cell at Millbank Prison, London. Date: 1862
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 7185293
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10512966
Cell Millbank Pauper Prison Prisoner Shoes Workhouse
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the quiet industry of a prisoner at Millbank Prison in London, England, in 1862. The man, dressed in the drab and worn attire of a pauper or convict, is intently focused on his task as he crafts a pair of shoes in the cramped confines of his cell. The prison, established in 1816, was known for its innovative system of solitary confinement and forced labor, with inmates required to work long hours in various trades to contribute to the upkeep of the institution. The prisoner's cell is sparsely furnished, with a simple wooden stool and a few basic tools at his disposal. A small window high up on the wall allows for a sliver of natural light to enter, casting an eerie glow on the scene. The walls of the cell are adorned with a few personal items, including a Bible and a framed photograph, hinting at the man's attempts to maintain some semblance of humanity amidst the harsh realities of prison life. Despite the grim surroundings, the prisoner's determination is evident as he meticulously cuts, shapes, and stitches the leather, transforming it into a functional and essential item. The act of creating something with his own hands may have provided a sense of pride and accomplishment, offering a glimmer of hope in the face of adversity. This poignant photograph offers a rare glimpse into the daily life of a prisoner during the Victorian era, highlighting the complexities and contradictions of a system that aimed to reform and rehabilitate, yet often perpetuated suffering and hardship.
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