Hexham House of Correction

Care and Repair

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The diet for House of Correction inmates was simple and high in fibre. Breakfast was 6 ounces of oatmeal and a gill of milk or beer. Dinner was either fish and bread, soup and bread, or milk and bread. Supper was 5 ounces of oatmeal and a gill of milk or beer. Inmates who worked hard earned larger portions.

By 1820 Hexham House of Correction was reported as being out of repair and too small. The present part was added, and larger yards were walled round to allow access to fresh air and exercise. Men and women were kept in separate parts with the Governor's (Keeper's) quarters between. The remaining part has a day cell downstairs and two night cells upstairs. The clang of the iron door shutting, even today, is a chilling sound. The windows have barbed edges so no inmates could slip out.