Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

Prisoners Their Own Warders A Record of the Convict Prison at Singapore in the Straits Settlements Established 1825   By:

Book cover

In "Prisoners Their Own Warders", W. D. Bayliss delves into the captivating history of the Convict Prison in Singapore, a significant establishment in the Straits Settlements, which has left an indelible mark on the criminal justice system. Bayliss's meticulous documentation and thorough exploration of this institution's evolution provide readers with an immersive journey through time.

The book is a treasure trove of information, dating back to the establishment of the prison in 1825. Bayliss expertly starts from the prison's inception, laying the foundations by describing the prevailing conditions and socio-political climate of the era. This contextual backdrop allows readers to comprehend the external forces that shaped the prison's development over its long and intricate history.

One of the book's most commendable aspects is its attention to detail. Bayliss's dedication to research is apparent throughout, leaving no stone unturned. He skillfully incorporates accounts from past wardens, prisoners, and officials, painting an authentic and comprehensive portrait of life inside the prison's formidable walls. By drawing on primary sources, Bayliss breathes life into historical events and the individuals involved, enabling readers to develop a genuine understanding of the convicted men's experiences.

Moreover, the author demonstrates a remarkable ability to chronicle the various reforms and changes that transpired within the prison system. Evolving alongside Singapore's growth and transformation as a colonial outpost, the Convict Prison continuously adapted to new standards and principles of incarceration. Bayliss masterfully narrates these shifts while analyzing the underlying motivations and consequences behind them. Consequently, readers gain profound insights into the complexities and challenges of administering justice within an ever-changing society.

Bayliss also provides valuable insights into the lives of the people who inhabited the prison. He explores the diverse backgrounds, crimes, and behaviors of the convicts, offering a multifaceted perspective that humanizes these individuals often deemed as societal outcasts. By delving into their stories, Bayliss prompts readers to reflect on the broader themes of punishment, rehabilitation, and society's role in shaping criminal behavior.

Despite its academic nature, "Prisoners Their Own Warders" is remarkably accessible to a wide range of readers. Bayliss's prose is engaging, clear, and concise, expertly avoiding dense jargon that could potentially alienate non-expert readers. Additionally, the book's seamless organization contributes to its overall readability, making it easy for readers to follow the prison's chronological evolution and thematic developments.

If there is one area where the book falls slightly short, it is in its limited exploration of the broader implications of the Convict Prison in Singapore. While Bayliss excels at describing the prison's inner workings, a more extensive analysis of its impact on Singaporean society at large would have further enriched the narrative. However, this small critique does not overshadow the book's overall strength and immense contribution to understanding the realities of colonial-era imprisonment.

In summary, "Prisoners Their Own Warders" is an exceptional historical account that sheds light on the captivating story of the Convict Prison in Singapore. Bayliss's meticulous research, attention to detail, and engaging narrative style combine to create a comprehensive exploration of the prison's evolution over time. This book is highly recommended for history enthusiasts, criminologists, and anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of Singapore's criminal justice system and the lives of those who passed through its prison doors.

First Page:

PRISONERS THEIR OWN WARDERS

[Illustration: Frontispiece

GENERAL MONTHLY MUSTER OF THE CONVICTS, SINGAPORE JAIL.]

PRISONERS THEIR OWN WARDERS

A RECORD OF THE CONVICT PRISON AT SINGAPORE IN THE STRAITS SETTLEMENTS ESTABLISHED 1825, DISCONTINUED 1873, TOGETHER WITH A CURSORY HISTORY OF THE CONVICT ESTABLISHMENTS AT BENCOOLEN, PENANG AND MALACCA FROM THE YEAR 1797

BY MAJOR J. R A. McNAIR

Late Royal Artillery, C.M.G., A.M.I.C.E., F.L.S., and F.R.G.S Late Colonial Engineer and Surveyor General and Comptroller of Indian Convicts Straits Settlements from 1857 to 1877 Author of "Perak and the Malays" (Sarong and Kris)

ASSISTED BY W. D. BAYLISS

Mem. Soc. Engineers Lond., Late Superintendent of Works and Surveys and Superintendent of Convicts, Singapore

WITH MAPS AND ILLUSTRATIONS

"A willing bondman." SHAKESPEARE ( Julius Caesar , Act I., Sc. 3)

WESTMINSTER ARCHIBALD CONSTABLE AND CO 2 WHITEHALL GARDENS 1899

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BUTLER & TANNER, THE SELWOOD PRINTING WORKS, FROME, AND LONDON.

[Illustration: DUFFADAR ARJOON, SENIOR PETTY OFFICER OF ARTIFICERS.

McNair. ]

Preface

Some explanation appears to be due from us for writing this account of the Singapore Convict Jail so long after the date of its final abolition... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books