Description
Borstal: A History of Rochester Prison
by Ralph Allison
The word Borstal is synonymous with the treatment of young criminals, but do you know where it originates? A prison, built at the top of a hill above the River Medway, which took its name from the local village.
Originally a convict prison built to house the labour used to construct the fortifications to protect Chatham Dockyard against a landward attack by the French, it eventually became the experiment for a youth justice system which spread across the country and the Empire.
Thoroughly researched and illustrated throughout, take a trip back in time and learn about the changes in British justice systems, and a prison which celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2024.
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Thank you – I really enjoyed reading the book and looking back at the history of the Borstal – a really informative little book. Thank you for your swift handling of the order and communication regarding its delivery.
A local history book with a national and international impact!
Borstal: A History of Rochester Prison is a well researched and thoughtfully constructed book. Ralph writes in an accessible style, so those with a passing interest to academics will find this book engaging. I thoroughly recommend it to anyone and everyone.
A fascinating insight into the history of this prison. A good use of factual records and some very interesting stories from those who worked or stayed there.