[Rarebooks] FS: 1856 Taunton Jail - Handwritten Massachusetts Letter

[Joslin Hall Rare Books]

 From our new Americana catalog-
<http://www.joslinhall.com/Catalog370.pdf>

17. [Legal]  1856 Taunton, Massachusetts Letter Regarding Taunton Jail.

An interesting letter(?) regarding the Taunton jail, of Taunton, 
Massachusetts, and  murder related to it. "Rehoboth, January 21st, 1856 
- The Taunton Jail - Last fall, I visited the pleasant village of 
Taunton. Among other objects of interest is the jail, it is situated in 
the North West part of the village, and was constructed about forty 
years ago. It is designed for the accommodation of persons who 
transgress the laws of the state. It is built of stone, about two 
stories high, and thirty feet square, with small windows protected by 
iron grates for the better security of the inmates, and is surrounded by 
a high wall. On beholding it, my mind reverted to the horrid tragedy 
enacted within its walls, which for one unpremeditated act, launched a 
fellow mortal into eternity. Hancheon B." Although dated and signed, 
there is no salutation, leading to free speculation as to whether this 
is a formal letter or some other form of reminiscence. The jail referred 
to here was the Bristol County Jail, built on land purchased in 1818 at 
the corner of Mill Street and Old Broadway (now Court Street and 
Washington Street). It was closed in 1873 when the new Hodges Avenue 
Jail was opened.

Single sheet. 5"x8". Minor soil.  [41873]  $85

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<http://www.joslinhall.com/Catalog370.pdf>



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