Herts Reformatory Chapmore End

[Jan Ann]

Hi There

I have discovered that one of my rellies - Richard Wilde aged 17 from Liverpool was a 'criminal under sentence'  in the 1861 census at Herts Refomatory Chapmore End, Bengeo, Hertfordshire.

Does anyone know what type of prison this was? and is it still around today?  Any info at all will be gratefully appreciated

Cheers
Jan

[linmey]

Hi Jan,
   I dont know exactly when the reform school closed but I am pretty sure it was in the 60s or 70s. The site of the school is now a private housing development but I believe some of the original school buildings were used. I certainly remember my parents taking some of the cubs from the pack that they ran, to use what was the school swimming pool.
  It wasnt a prison but a reform school and the boys were taught a trade I believe. They certainly had a small farm there and the boys worked on it.
  I can possibly find out more if you need it.
There is also some info if you Google Herts Reformatory Chapmore End.
Best wishes.  Linda.

[Jan Ann]

hi Linda

Thanks for this    I will certainly have a Google 

Cheers
Jan

[CarolynJacob]

Hello Jan,
Have just discovered my ancestor Harry Saltmarsh born Gt. Hallingbury as a criminal under sentence of detention at the Herts Reformatory, Bengoe in 1871, age 15.
By 1876 he had emigrated to Canada, and married.
Have been reading a bit about the school:

http://www.buckscc.gov.uk/archives/education/victorian_crime/children.htm
http://www.missing-ancestors.com/hertfordshire_reformatory_for_boy%20ware%20info.htm
http://www.buckscc.gov.uk/archives/education/victorian_crime/Victorians_Teaching_Pack.pdf
Regards,
Carolyn

[Jan Ann]

Hi Carolyn

Thanks for these - currently checking out another criminal this time on my mums side - its a wonder i turned out so well.......

Cheers
Jan

[linmey]

I expect they just had the 19th century equivalent of an ASBO.

Linda.