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Ancestry UK

Debtors' Prison, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey

In 1829, a new Debtors' Prison was opened in Bath Passage, Kingston-upon-Thames. It replaced the old town gaol, also known as the Stockhouse, which was closed as part of a scheme to improve the approach road to the new Kingston Bridge.

The prison's first gaoler was Joseph Walter, who had previously been keeper of the Stockhouse. He received an annual salary of £10 plus accommodation on the prison site. He continued in the post until his death in August 1848, at the age of 70. His widow, Martha Walter, was then permitted to remain in residence.

The prison remained in operation until 1852.

Records

Note: many repositories impose a closure period of up to 100 years for records identifying individuals. Before travelling a long distance, always check that the records you want to consult will be available.

Bibliography

  • Prison Oracle - resources those involved in present-day UK prisons.
  • GOV.UK - UK Government's information on sentencing, probation and support for families.

Except where indicated, this page () © Peter Higginbotham. Contents may not be reproduced without permission.