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England (Counties as in 1851-1901) => England => Dorset => Topic started by: northern_rose on Thursday 20 October 05 18:41 BST (UK)

Title: "Black sheep" in Portland Prison 1901
Post by: northern_rose on Thursday 20 October 05 18:41 BST (UK)

I've found the obvious "black sheep" of my family in prison in 1901.

I'd love to know how and why he ended up there - where can I find this out?

A friend suggested searching newspapers but I am not sure where to start. He lived in Lancashire an 1891 but in 1901 he was in Portland Prison (Dorset). Does this mean he was living in Dorset prior to  being imprisoned? Or would he have been sent nationally as today? I'm not sure whether to look in Lancs or Dorset?

Any help or suggestions gratefully received!

Title: Re: "Black sheep" in Portland Prison 1901
Post by: roy lees on Friday 21 October 05 18:22 BST (UK)

Hi,

    We are going through the same problem with our "black sheep". We wrote to Strangeways prison in Manchester where he was a 'guest' in 1901 and were told they were too busy to check their records. However, I spoke with the information commissioners office in Wilmslow, and , under the freedom of information act , they must give you the information you request . So, in summary, write to the prison, give as much information as possible,ie full name , D.O.B. what information you want etc , and quote the freedom of information act. They must respond within 20 working days, or give you a very good reason why the information is restricted .

Good Luck

Roy

Title: Re: "Black sheep" in Portland Prison 1901
Post by: Rosemary* on Monday 07 November 05 23:49 GMT (UK)

Hello - I also had a similar situation - try the site:-
www.lightage.demon.co.uk
  Rosemary