The Old Newgate Prison, Connecticut

In 1773, an old copper mine in Simsbury, Connecticut, is converted into Newgate Prison. Until now, people have only been locked up while they await punishment or trial. This institution, which is considered the first American prison, marks a radical departure in punishment. In many respects, it foreshadows what is to come — although it does not yet reflect the new American philosophy of reform. Newgate houses both violent and nonviolent offenders, and the only goal of the punishment is retribution. A first offense might call for a ten-year sentence — a second offense could result in life. In this underground facility, overcrowding and violence are rampant. America's first prison riots break out in 1774 in response to the horrifying conditions. There are no cells; men, women, and children are all thrown together. Inmates never see the light of day, and forced labor means working with iron fetters around the ankles.

The extraordinary nature of the facility leads officials to believe it is extremely secure, and originally Newgate has only one guard. This proves not to be the case, and escapes are common. The prison does not generate enough money through copper mining and tries other moneymaking ventures, from stone-cutting to shoemaking. Nothing works. Newgate serves as Connecticut's state prison from 1790 to 1827. Eventually, it becomes too expensive to maintain and is replaced by a new institution in Wethersfield.

Newgate Sign