In 1925, the grim doors of Carliol Square Gaol in Newcastle closed for the last time after 90 years of service. A unique photographic record of some of the men, women and children imprisoned there 1871-1873 has survived and is now held by Tyne & Wear Archives. In "Victorian Villains", Barry Redfern, retired Chief Superintendent of Northumbria Police, investigates the crimes and punishments of these unfortunate Newcastle residents, follows up their stories where possible from primary sources, and uncovers the social conditions in which they lived. He also takes a look at prison conditions and police methods in Victorian times to discover both a local Sherlock Holmes, and some dissatisfaction in the Newcastle force.

Author Biography

Barry Redfern in a retired Chief Superintendent of Northumbria Police. He is the author of The Shadow of the Gallows which was winner of an Alan Ball Local History Award.