Preston Gaol

[dixidan]

Is there anywhere I can find out why a relative was in Preston Gaol in 1901?

Thanks

[Jack Richards]

Assuming, rightly or wrongly, that he is named, and is on the census for 1901 and shown as in gaol, and that it was a gaol as opposed to a prison, I suspect it may have been for a minor offence and sentence of very short duration or he was awaiting removal to a prison for a longer sentence.

My first suggestion is that you try the County Record Office for Lancashire. It may be at Preston and they may have records for Preston Gaol.

I stand corrected if other friends on the list interpret "gaol" and "prison" in a different manner in 1901.

A longer, probably more painstaking search could be local newspapers. You probably know where he lived when not in gaol. If so that will probably provide a clue as to the local newspaper to search.

I'm sure that you wil be successful in this piece of research and that other friends on the list will provide more information and suggestions, but mine is a start for you. I could add more, but as I say, it is a start for you.

Regards Jack

[Peter Goodey]

I think the questioner is probably referring to HM Prison, Preston which thanks to Jeff Knaggs' list of Institutions, I see is at RG 13/3947 ff 159-171.

But why speculate?

[Penny Gallo]

I was hoping that it would be possible to contact Preston Prison itself, as they have a research option - but it says they don't accept "family research" enquiries, only those from universities - and it can take up to three months!! http://easyfreesmileys.com/smileys/free-sad-smileys-211.gif (http://easyfreesmileys.com/Free-Sexy-Smileys/) Sorry

[Peter Goodey]

A basic and important guide to tracing criminals is here:

http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/catalogue/RdLeaflet.asp?sLeafletID=120