PRISON HUMOR.

PRISON HUMOR.Several years ago there was an inmate in the Stillwater penitentiary who unconsciously perpetrated one of the best jokes that had been heard at the institution for some time. He was a German and a hard-working carpenter by trade. He was honest to a fault and led a model life while on the outside. The crime for which he was sentenced was assault on a fellow workman, and for this offense he received a two-year sentence at the Stillwater penitentiary. He was immediately put to work for the Minnesota Thresher Co., being assigned work in one of the carpenter shops. One day he forgot to take his plug of chewing tobacco with him to the shop, having left it laying on the small table in his cell. That evening when he came in from work he found the plug of tobacco missing. He at once began calling for one of the night guards, and on that gentleman's arrival the prisoner remarked:“Say, Mr. Guard, dere must pe thieves in dis here blace. Mine tobacco's she was gone, und I harms noboddies. I dink ve petter send for dere bolicemans und catch sum uf dem rascals.”The foregoing story is absolutely authentic, and was told again and again by the prisoners who appreciate a good joke as keenly as their free brothers. It also brings out rather forcibly the fact that, notwithstanding the man was in prison, he was still honest.[pg 57]THE VERSATILE PRISONER.It is quite generally known that the prisoners at the Minnesota state prison are prohibited from talking, and what conversation there is, generally takes place on a holiday or is permitted in cases where their work makes talking necessary. One day there was committed to the prison a man who was proficient in a dozen different languages. The deputy warden was examining the man as to his birth, nationality, religion, etc., and when he asked the prisoner his nationality he replied that he could talk in several different languages.“Hump,”grunted the deputy,“we talk English here and d— little of that.”CAPT.“JACK”CRAWFORD'S JOKE ON THE GUARDS.Several years ago the poet-scout, Capt.“Jack”Crawford, delivered a lecture in the prison chapel to the inmates. In passing it is well to state that this well-known lecturer makes it a point to visit the various penal and charitable institutions throughout the country free of charge, hence his friendly call at the Stillwater prison.During the course of Mr. Crawford's remarks he paused in his discourse and said:“Men, I heartily sympathize with you for being in the unfortunate condition you are, but (and the speaker pointed his hands at each side of the room where the guards were stationed) if these high-toned gentlemen in blue uniforms were dressed in the same clothes you are and placed among you, why I couldn't tell the difference between you!”This unintentional joke at the guards caused a great deal of applause, but when Mr. Crawford's remarks are[pg 58]examined by cold, logic, it will be found that he simply told the truth and that the dissimilarity is a question of clothes and nothing else.FEEDING THE DONKEYS.When the prison band was first organized the inmate musicians made a noise that was something indescribable. It sounded like a sawmill blowing up, or a handsaw striking a 60-penny spike. One day one of the highly-strung nervous chaps went up to the deputy warden and asked permission to buy a bale of hay.“What do you want hay for?”asked the deputy.“Why,”replied the prisoner,“I would like to present a bale of hay to those jackasses in the park who are making all that confounded noise.”TRICKS OF PRISONERS WHO SHAM ILLNESSA prison is not an admirable place for those disinclined to work. A man occasionally succeeds in hoodwinking the authorities for a time, but this rarely occurs. Whenever there is a reasonable doubt the prisoner is given the benefit of it. A case in particular is that of one Mr. B., who complained that the entire lower part of his body was paralyzed and that he was unable to walk. He was given a pair of crutches and put in the hospital ward, where he lived well, his wants supplied by the attendants and where he had absolutely nothing to do. The doctors suspected that he was faking and secretly applied tests to verify their belief. Evidently the man was on his guard and fully acquainted with the various modes of procedure in such cases, for he stood the tests unflinchingly.[pg 59]Finally Warden Wolfer took his case under personal charge and evolved a plan that the clever prisoner had not figured on as one of the possibilities of detection. The strategy was this: A newly-appointed guard was dressed in a third-grade suit of convict clothes on the day when the prisoners in the crank department were given their weekly shave. Mr. B. was sitting on the bench waiting to be shaved. The deputy warden stepped into the room with the alleged third-grade prisoner and gruffly ordered him to be seated, then turned to the barber and told him to shave the third-grade man next, as he was in a hurry. Not an inkling of suspicion flashed across Mr. B.'s brain. In the door leading into this ward a small peep-hole is arranged, enabling the guard to look into the room without entering. The warden was stationed behind this door to observe the results of this scheme. As the third-grade“prisoner”sat down to be shaved he suddenly seized one of the barber's razors, and, with a whoop, jumped out of the chair and made for the“helpless”Mr. B., who immediately cast aside his crutches and rushed down the corridor to escape from the supposed demented“prisoner.”The fact that his legs were paralyzed and that he was acting a part was entirely forgotten.At this stage of the proceedings the warden entered the room and informed the crestfallen Mr. B. that the comedy was over. At first he was inclined to continue the paralytic roll, but when informed that he had the option of going to work or taking an indefinite stay on a bread-and-water diet he wisely chose the first alternative, and for the remainder of his term gave no more trouble.Another case of shirking is that of Mr. M., who is a life prisoner and who has spent over a quarter of a[pg 60]century behind the bars of Minnesota's famous penal institution. He insisted that something was wrong with his limbs and that he could not walk; that he needed the assistance of crutches, but one night one of the nurses observed him walking back and forth in his cell, evidently taking a needed constitutional. He was sent to work in a few days and is today walking as successfully as ever. He employed this deception for many years.A“HORSE”ON THE PRISON PHYSICIAN.Some time ago there arrived at the prison a man who appeared to be, as far as visible appearances were concerned, a chronic sufferer from epileptic fits. On the day he entered prison he had two of these fits, and almost every day thereafter they occurred with surprising frequency. The assistant physician was always called on these occasions, but could do nothing for the sufferer, he being thoroughly convinced that the fits were the real article. The prisoner was given an easy position in the cellhouse, as it was considered too dangerous to have him working in the shops alongside of the machines, belting, etc.Finally, however, this easy job began to pall on the epileptic prisoner's nerves; and he asked the deputy warden to be transferred to the shops.“I can't do it,”said the deputy,“as it would be against the physician's orders to change your work.”“Well, if that is the case I will have to cut out the fit business,”replied the prisoner.“What do you mean?”asked the deputy warden.“These fits are all fakes,”smilingly retorted the prisoner,“and I can cut them out any time.”[pg 61]“The only way you can convince me that these epileptic fits are not genuine is to stop having them. If you do this for thirty days, I will give you any job you want.”The prisoner got the job, greatly to the mystification of the physicians and the deputy warden.ESCAPES FROM PRISONThere has been but one successful escape during the eighteen years that Warden Wolfer has had charge of the prison. A capture was, however, effected a few days later. The escape was neatly planned, and the“loophole”through which he crawled could only have been detected by one who was constantly looking for a chance to“fly the coop,”using a prisoner's expression. Opportunity came to him in the following manner: It was the custom of the captain of the cellhouse to unlock the doors immediately after the men had left their cells. In the fall of the year it is still quite dark when the prisoners march into the dining room to breakfast. On the morning that Mr. B. made his escape he simply remained in his cell, and as soon as the captain of the cell house unlocked the side doors and went back to his desk came out of his cell, cautiously made his way out of one of the side doors and made a beeline for the wall near the railroad gate, negotiating the same near this point. The wall guard imagined that he saw some one go over the top of the wall and fired several shots in that direction, but it was still very dark and he was uncertain just what it was. The prisoner got away without a scratch, but, as previously stated, was recaptured a few days later. Shot by a farmer whom he tried to rob and received a bad bullet wound in one of his ankles. The farmer, however, was not aware of his identity,—had ordered[pg 62]him off his premises, but the prisoner acted in a threatening manner and was thereupon shot.About seventeen years ago another attempt to escape was made by a desperate young fellow and two companions. They evaded the guard, slipped out of the shop near the wagon gate and then waited where they were not observed; then a dash for freedom through this big double gate as it swung open to permit a team to pass out. All three were apprehended shortly afterwards under the warehouse building of the Minnesota Thresher Co., where they had sought temporary refuge. This was just opposite the prison. It is very improbable that any more attempts will be made through this gate, a guard now being stationed on the wall above the gate and one across the street. Formerly there was but one guard in charge of the gate, which had a tendency to invite attack at this quarter.Prison BandPrison BandPrison Band In ParkPrison Band In ParkPrison Train Backing Into Prison Yard to be Loaded with TwinePrison Train Backing Into Prison Yard to be Loaded with TwineTrain Leaving Prison Yard After LoadingTrain Leaving Prison Yard After LoadingAbout twenty-five years ago a prisoner, Frank Landis by name, made as successful an escape as was ever made from any institution. He sawed the bars on one of the cell house windows, squeezed himself through and has never been heard from since. Landis had arrived in St. Paul one day and victimized business men out of nearly twenty-five thousand dollars. He represented himself to be the son of a rich merchant of La Crosse, Wis., and, to allay suspicion, invited one of the merchants to telegraph at his expense as to his credentials. He evidently had a confederate at the other end of the line, as word came back that he was O. K. After getting this merchant to cash his checks he next induced him to introduce the generous buyer to other merchants, the aforesaid merchant vouching for his standing in each instance. One[pg 63][pg 64][pg 65]man became suspicious, and early the next morning communicated with La Crosse and received immediate advice that the name was unknown. Then the hunt for Landis began, but he had departed for parts unknown, was later captured and received twenty years in the Stillwater penitentiary. Here his stay was of short duration, as he soon made his escape.On a previous page we stated that there had been but one escape from the Minnesota State Prison since Mr. Wolfer has been warden. Recently, however, a“trusty,”who had been acting as coachman, took advantage of the freedom allowed him and disappeared. This is not considered by the officials as an escape in the true sense of the word. Below we give the“trusty's”picture with the Bertillon Measurements.Allus PetwrayHeight, 1 m 75 1Height 5 ft. 9 in.Outs A 1 m 82Trunk 90Head Length 19.8Head Width 15.3Cheek Width 13.6R. Ear 7.2L. Foot 27.4d1L. Mid F. 11.6L. Lit. F. 9.2L Forearm 48.1[pg 66]Name, Allus Petwray, No. 2654. Nationality, African; age, 30; color, Negro; build, muscular; complexion, M. brown; hair, black; eyes, Mar. deep; weight. 161.Sentenced March 1, 1909; term, 2½ years. From Polk county, for the crime of grand larceny, second degree.Marks and scars: 1 cut:- hor. rec. 1.5 c at 3 d ph. R. III-Cut:- rec. hor. 4c at on & sr. of cen. sr. brw. III-Cic;- rec. ob. 1c at slt. over & sr. out. pt. sr. eye. III-cut:-rec. ver. sit. ob. 3c at 2.5 to front dx. tragus. III-Cut:-rec. ob. 8c at 3 over dx. ear.Occupation, coachman.This photograph and record of Bertillon Measurements has been sent broadcast to all the police departments in the United States and Canada, and his recapture will probably be“only a question of time.”BREAKING INTO PRISONWe have just related some cases where men have broken out of prison, and it is in order to state the facts regarding a robbery that took place at the prison. A man actually broke into prison for the purpose of stealing. He had procured a rope ladder and scaled one of the rear walls, made his way to the Western Shoe company's factory and selected the finest case of shoes he could find. He then retraced his way to the wall, tied a rope to the case of shoes, climbed up and went away as though the act of stealing shoes from a penitentiary was an every-day accomplishment for him. He was also captured, and it was then discovered that he had been a former inmate, accounting for his familiarity with the grounds. The place is constantly patroled by two night watchmen, and it is still a mystery how he managed to evade them. This act might have been performed out of a spirit of reckless bravado to demonstrate to the other inmates that he was fully capable. His little stunt, however, cost him another residence of three and one-half years at the prison.[pg 67]THE PAROLE SYSTEMThe state of Minnesota was one of the first to introduce the grading and parole systems in its prison. Speaking of this feature, Warden Wolfer says:“We have paroled 934 prisoners since the parole law went into effect in 1894. We now have 72 prisoners on parole, three of whom are females. Of those paroled 716 were committed on a definite sentence, and 218 on Reformatory Plan.”“The grading and parole law continues to work satisfactorily and gives much promise and encouragement for the future. We are often disappointed by the failure of promising parole men to make good, but on the other hand, we are as often encouraged by the less promising who have made good beyond our most sanguine expectations. All of which demonstrates the limitation of human judgment and the difficulty of‘reading the human heart aright.’Most of those who break parole are carried over the line by some weakness, usually intemperance, a weakness that they do not seem able to control.”“We are glad to be able to say that our expedience with the grading and parole system gives us growing encouragement and hope for the future, because we believe we have hopeful and satisfying evidence that few men break their parole because of the desire to do wrong. As a rule, the parole breaker heartily regrets his misstep, and frequently will make good if given another chance.”“The parole embodies those ethical principles of conduct that make for normal life and good character. Rationally and constructively applied, it builds up and encourages manhood and at the same time it discourages a disposition to yield to weakening impulses that lead to wrongdoing. Every possible effort should be made to apprehend and return the fugitive parole breaker, for if allowed to remain at large he is almost sure to become a confirmed criminal. Therefore, a more thorough supervision of paroled prisoners is necessary, and a more accurate system for the apprehension and identification of parole breakers seems imperative in every state, and throughout the country, wherever the parole system is in vogue.”[pg 68]“Of the 934 prisoners paroled 59 per cent were finally discharged by reason of expiration of definite sentence; 13 2-3 per cent, who were committed on the Reformatory Plan, were discharged by the board after having given satisfactory evidence of a desire and purpose to live honestly and become good citizens; 19 2-3 per cent of the whole number paroled violated their paroles; 17 1-3 per cent of the whole number were returned to prison to serve unexpired sentences, leaving 2 1-3 per cent parole violators now at large.”This system has had a marked tendency to improve the discipline of the prison, for it impels inmates to bend every effort to merit this consideration at the hands of the state authorities. The state law governing the parole of prisoners from the penitentiary is as follows:THE PAROLE LAWParole of Prisoners,—The State Board of Control may parole any prisoner: Provided,1.No convict shall be paroled who has been previously convicted of a felony other than the one for which he is serving sentence, either in this state or elsewhere.2.No convict serving a time sentence shall be paroled until he shall have served at least one-half of his full term, not reckoning good time.3.No convict serving a life sentence shall be paroled until he has served thirty-five years, less the diminution which would have been allowed for good conduct had his sentence been for thirty-five years, and then only by unanimous consent, in writing, of the members of the Board of Pardons.4.Such convicts while on parole shall remain in the legal custody and under control of the Board of Control, subject at any time to be returned to the prison or reformatory, and the written order of said board, certified by the Warden, shall be a sufficient warrant to any officer to retake and return to actual custody any such convict. Geographical limits wholly within[pg 69][pg 70][pg 71]the state may be fixed in each case, and the same enlarged or reduced according to the conduct of the prisoners.5.In considering applications for parole said board shall not entertain any petition, receive any written communication, or bear any argument from any attorney or other person not connected with said prison, in favor of the parole of any prisoner, but it may institute inquiries by correspondence or otherwise as to the previous history or character of such prisoner.At the present time nearly all the states have inaugurated the parole and grading system similar to the law in operation in this state, and some are considering the advisability of introducing the system. This law is one of the best measures of the so-called modern penology and one in which the leading authorities on such matters feel the most pride.Dynamited Safe, Stephen, Minn.This cut shows the condition of the safe and office of the State Bank of Stephen, Minn., after being wrecked by dynamite. This was done by three men. One escaped, one gave state's evidence and the other is now serving a term at the Minnesota State Prison.Warden's OfficeWarden's OfficeDIMINUTION OF SENTENCEThe following law will give the reader an idea of the“good time”the prisoner earns during imprisonment, and is another powerful incentive toward good conduct. Few prisoners permit themselves to commit violations of rules, the gravity of which subjects them to punishment. A man may be deprived of good time for refusing to obey an order, fighting, insolence to guard, foreman or fellow-prisoner.Diminution of Sentence.—Every convict sentenced for a definite term other than life, whether confined in the state prison or on parole therefrom, may diminish such term as follows:1.For each month, commencing on the day of his arrival, during which he has not violated any prison rule or discipline, and has labored with diligence and fidelity, five days.2.After one year of such conduct, seven days for each month.3.After two years of such conduct, nine days for each month.4.After three years, ten days for each month for the entire time thereafter.Said board, in view of the aggravated nature and frequency of offenses, may take away any or all of the good time previously gained, and, in consideration of mitigating circumstances or ignorance on the part of the convict, may afterwards restore him, in whole or in part, to the standing he possessed before such good time was taken away. Whenever a convict shall pass the entire period of his imprisonment without an unexcused violation of the rules or discipline, upon his discharge he shall be restored to his rights and privileges forfeited by conviction, and receive from the governor a certificate, under the seal of the state, as evidence of such restorationDISCHARGE ALLOWANCEIn some states there is little or no provision for aiding the discharged prisoner, and in some states when parole is granted his prospective employer must first send railroad fare before he is released. In many states the discharged man is given five dollars in money, while in others he is permitted to earn money during his imprisonment. The following is the law that governs in the state of Minnesota:Upon discharge the Warden, at the expense of the state, shall furnish each convict released with one good, serviceable suit of clothing and underclothing, and, when released between October 1 and March 31 following, with a good, serviceable overcoat; and he shall pay to each convict, when released, $25 in money drawn from the current expense fund.Decoration: Keys, Ball and Chain[pg 73]THE CELLHOUSE BUILDINGWithin the cellhouse building there are 664 cells, ranged tier upon tier, there being six in all. The building is constructed entirely of iron and stone, and the walls are nearly three feet thick. It is safe to say that in this solidly built building more human sorrow is represented than anywhere else in the state. If an authentic record could be made of the tragedies that take place behind these grim, unsympathetic stone walls it would fill volumes. However, it would require the enviable intellect of a Victor Hugo or Charles Read to vividly picture the utter despair and blasted hopes of the many thousands who have been imprisoned within these cheerless walls since the construction of the building. It is absolutely fireproof, but quite antiquated, the sanitation and ventilation being extremely poor. About fifteen prisoners are employed in the cell house, sweeping cells, galleries, passing out water, holystoning the flags in the corridor and keeping the place as clean as possible. Two men are constantly employed in whitewashing the cells and the interior of the cell house, and another's time is wholly occupied in exterminating bedbugs, which are quite plentiful and possess large appetites.The captain makes a tour of the galleries each morning and inspects each cell to see that everything is in order. If a cell floor or other articles are in a slovenly condition the inmate is reported to the deputy warden, whose duty it is to administer a reprimand for negligence. While making this four of inspection he delivers all incoming letters addressed to prisoners. All incoming and outgoing mail is carefully scrutinized before delivery. On Sunday morning material for writing letters[pg 74]is issued to all prisoners who are permitted to write, and the distribution of tobacco is also made at this time. The upper tiers of the galleries used to be the rendezvous for inmates possessing suicidal inclinations, not a few of whom, having lost all courage and lacking the determination to live, chose this method of ending their woes. We use the words“used to be”advisedly, for they have ceased to be an attraction to the death-desiring since the failure to accomplish the result occurred to an inmate who a short time ago took the plunge from the upper tier. In an hour or so he was at work as if nothing unusual had happened. Heretofore a plunge from the upper tiers to the stone flags always meant a call for the undertaker.Cellhouse, Looking EastCellhouse, Looking EastPrison BandPrison BandSpinning Room In Twine Factory looking West.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking West.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking East.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking East.[pg 75][pg 76][pg 77]THE CHAUTAUQUA CIRCLEThere is in existence in the Minnesota State Prison a Chautauqua circle, being a branch of the main organization, conducted entirely by the inmates and the presiding officers elected from the members thereof.Election of officers occurs once a year. Meetings are held fortnightly in the prison chapel, at which time several papers are read and discussed by the members. At the conclusion of the meeting a critic chosen from the circle reviews the program, points out various errors in composition papers or commends them as the case may be.The membership of this unique organization numbers about thirty, and as old members withdraw new ones are selected from the better educated prisoners. Meetings are always conducted in an orderly manner, not a snigle serious violation of the rules having occurred since the organization—about twenty years ago. Discussions at times becomes exceedingly spirited, especially if a paper is read that attacks the pet hobbies of the several members.As an educational feature of the institution the Chautauqua circle is accomplishing excellent work and deserves the sincere patronage and commendation of the prison authorities.BAND AND ORCHESTRALike the majority of the better-class prisons, Minnesota's penitentiary has the honor of having within its walls a well-equipped band and orchestra. They are in charge of an experienced citizen-music teacher, and have made[pg 78]remarkable progress since organization. About nineteen members compose the band, mostly men who have a long time to serve.The orchestra provides music for the services in the prison chapel, and when entertainments are given provides the musical numbers on the program. Of late years it has attained a degree of efficiency that has been commended very highly by prominent visitors to the institution.The band gives a concert each morning during the summer months and also during drill exercises, which take place in the yard every Sunday immediately after chapel service. Concerts are also given in the park on holidays, when the men are enjoying outdoor freedom, which the inmates appreciate very much, helping wonderfully to break the dull, routine monotony of prison life. The band and orchestra cost the state very little, its instruments are paid for out of the fees received from visitors, who pay a twenty-five cent admission to see the institution. This amount is donated for the benefit of the library fund.PRISON NIGHT SCHOOLThe prison that now neglects to provide suitable educational facilities for the instruction of its inmates is considered behind the times. A great many inmates of penitentiaries are illiterate, and the prison night schools afford an excellent opportunity to acquire the fundamentals of a good education. This department is under the supervision of the superintendent of public schools of Stillwater, who is assisted by a corps of teachers chosen from among the inmates. The course of study[pg 79]corresponds to the course pursued in the state primary and grammar schools. There are fourteen classes, ranging from a, b, c class to one in advanced bookkeeping. Three sessions are held weekly, and the school is popular among the prisoners. Those serving reformatory sentences are compelled to attend, but the voluntary attendance is always in excess of the compulsory. During the season of 1907-08 the average attendance was 164, and of this number 48 were compelled to attend, while the balance, 116, attended voluntarily.The prison night school is in operation eight months during the year, and is well partronized, many inmates receiving their first instructions in reading and writing during their period of service. To the ambitious man there is plenty of opportunity for self-improvement, so it can readily be seen that no one need wholly waste the time that he is compelled to serve for infraction of state laws. When school is not in session inmates are granted permission to have all the school books they require in pursuance of studies.THE SHOE INDUSTRY.This factory is conducted by the Western Shoe Co., and annually employs about 225 prisoners. There is an excellent opportunity here for the inmate to learn a trade at which he can make a good living upon his release. Few citizens are employed at this work, but a competent citizen-foreman is in charge of each shop. As far as possible prisoners are taught the business of making shoes, and many of them become very proficient at this work.The company pays a stated price for each piece of[pg 80]work turned out, and the per diem earnings of the prisoners is larger than in any other prison in the country. The volume of business of these two industries amounts annually to more than $2,000,000. Of this total, returns from the twine factory, operated on state account, amount to $1,300,000, while the shoe company, operated on the piece-price system, does a business in excess of $800,000.THE REPAIR SHOP.All the repair work of the institution is performed in this department, and in this shop are located the tinner, plumbers, carpenters, painters, machinists, etc., all under the supervision of a first-class foreman. The tinner makes all the tinware used in the various departments of the prison and attends to its repairing. As the entire institution is heated by steam, the plumbers are kept constantly employed during the winter repairing radiators and overhauling wornout steam pipes. As repairs and improvements are constantly being made and as the prison buildings are quite old, considerable carpenter work is also necessitated each year.Perhaps the busiest men in this shop are the machinists, whose business it is to see that all machinery, shafting, etc., are kept in repair, thus reducing breakdowns to the minimum. This shop is run in an economical manner and annually saves the state thousands of dollars.

PRISON HUMOR.Several years ago there was an inmate in the Stillwater penitentiary who unconsciously perpetrated one of the best jokes that had been heard at the institution for some time. He was a German and a hard-working carpenter by trade. He was honest to a fault and led a model life while on the outside. The crime for which he was sentenced was assault on a fellow workman, and for this offense he received a two-year sentence at the Stillwater penitentiary. He was immediately put to work for the Minnesota Thresher Co., being assigned work in one of the carpenter shops. One day he forgot to take his plug of chewing tobacco with him to the shop, having left it laying on the small table in his cell. That evening when he came in from work he found the plug of tobacco missing. He at once began calling for one of the night guards, and on that gentleman's arrival the prisoner remarked:“Say, Mr. Guard, dere must pe thieves in dis here blace. Mine tobacco's she was gone, und I harms noboddies. I dink ve petter send for dere bolicemans und catch sum uf dem rascals.”The foregoing story is absolutely authentic, and was told again and again by the prisoners who appreciate a good joke as keenly as their free brothers. It also brings out rather forcibly the fact that, notwithstanding the man was in prison, he was still honest.[pg 57]THE VERSATILE PRISONER.It is quite generally known that the prisoners at the Minnesota state prison are prohibited from talking, and what conversation there is, generally takes place on a holiday or is permitted in cases where their work makes talking necessary. One day there was committed to the prison a man who was proficient in a dozen different languages. The deputy warden was examining the man as to his birth, nationality, religion, etc., and when he asked the prisoner his nationality he replied that he could talk in several different languages.“Hump,”grunted the deputy,“we talk English here and d— little of that.”CAPT.“JACK”CRAWFORD'S JOKE ON THE GUARDS.Several years ago the poet-scout, Capt.“Jack”Crawford, delivered a lecture in the prison chapel to the inmates. In passing it is well to state that this well-known lecturer makes it a point to visit the various penal and charitable institutions throughout the country free of charge, hence his friendly call at the Stillwater prison.During the course of Mr. Crawford's remarks he paused in his discourse and said:“Men, I heartily sympathize with you for being in the unfortunate condition you are, but (and the speaker pointed his hands at each side of the room where the guards were stationed) if these high-toned gentlemen in blue uniforms were dressed in the same clothes you are and placed among you, why I couldn't tell the difference between you!”This unintentional joke at the guards caused a great deal of applause, but when Mr. Crawford's remarks are[pg 58]examined by cold, logic, it will be found that he simply told the truth and that the dissimilarity is a question of clothes and nothing else.FEEDING THE DONKEYS.When the prison band was first organized the inmate musicians made a noise that was something indescribable. It sounded like a sawmill blowing up, or a handsaw striking a 60-penny spike. One day one of the highly-strung nervous chaps went up to the deputy warden and asked permission to buy a bale of hay.“What do you want hay for?”asked the deputy.“Why,”replied the prisoner,“I would like to present a bale of hay to those jackasses in the park who are making all that confounded noise.”TRICKS OF PRISONERS WHO SHAM ILLNESSA prison is not an admirable place for those disinclined to work. A man occasionally succeeds in hoodwinking the authorities for a time, but this rarely occurs. Whenever there is a reasonable doubt the prisoner is given the benefit of it. A case in particular is that of one Mr. B., who complained that the entire lower part of his body was paralyzed and that he was unable to walk. He was given a pair of crutches and put in the hospital ward, where he lived well, his wants supplied by the attendants and where he had absolutely nothing to do. The doctors suspected that he was faking and secretly applied tests to verify their belief. Evidently the man was on his guard and fully acquainted with the various modes of procedure in such cases, for he stood the tests unflinchingly.[pg 59]Finally Warden Wolfer took his case under personal charge and evolved a plan that the clever prisoner had not figured on as one of the possibilities of detection. The strategy was this: A newly-appointed guard was dressed in a third-grade suit of convict clothes on the day when the prisoners in the crank department were given their weekly shave. Mr. B. was sitting on the bench waiting to be shaved. The deputy warden stepped into the room with the alleged third-grade prisoner and gruffly ordered him to be seated, then turned to the barber and told him to shave the third-grade man next, as he was in a hurry. Not an inkling of suspicion flashed across Mr. B.'s brain. In the door leading into this ward a small peep-hole is arranged, enabling the guard to look into the room without entering. The warden was stationed behind this door to observe the results of this scheme. As the third-grade“prisoner”sat down to be shaved he suddenly seized one of the barber's razors, and, with a whoop, jumped out of the chair and made for the“helpless”Mr. B., who immediately cast aside his crutches and rushed down the corridor to escape from the supposed demented“prisoner.”The fact that his legs were paralyzed and that he was acting a part was entirely forgotten.At this stage of the proceedings the warden entered the room and informed the crestfallen Mr. B. that the comedy was over. At first he was inclined to continue the paralytic roll, but when informed that he had the option of going to work or taking an indefinite stay on a bread-and-water diet he wisely chose the first alternative, and for the remainder of his term gave no more trouble.Another case of shirking is that of Mr. M., who is a life prisoner and who has spent over a quarter of a[pg 60]century behind the bars of Minnesota's famous penal institution. He insisted that something was wrong with his limbs and that he could not walk; that he needed the assistance of crutches, but one night one of the nurses observed him walking back and forth in his cell, evidently taking a needed constitutional. He was sent to work in a few days and is today walking as successfully as ever. He employed this deception for many years.A“HORSE”ON THE PRISON PHYSICIAN.Some time ago there arrived at the prison a man who appeared to be, as far as visible appearances were concerned, a chronic sufferer from epileptic fits. On the day he entered prison he had two of these fits, and almost every day thereafter they occurred with surprising frequency. The assistant physician was always called on these occasions, but could do nothing for the sufferer, he being thoroughly convinced that the fits were the real article. The prisoner was given an easy position in the cellhouse, as it was considered too dangerous to have him working in the shops alongside of the machines, belting, etc.Finally, however, this easy job began to pall on the epileptic prisoner's nerves; and he asked the deputy warden to be transferred to the shops.“I can't do it,”said the deputy,“as it would be against the physician's orders to change your work.”“Well, if that is the case I will have to cut out the fit business,”replied the prisoner.“What do you mean?”asked the deputy warden.“These fits are all fakes,”smilingly retorted the prisoner,“and I can cut them out any time.”[pg 61]“The only way you can convince me that these epileptic fits are not genuine is to stop having them. If you do this for thirty days, I will give you any job you want.”The prisoner got the job, greatly to the mystification of the physicians and the deputy warden.ESCAPES FROM PRISONThere has been but one successful escape during the eighteen years that Warden Wolfer has had charge of the prison. A capture was, however, effected a few days later. The escape was neatly planned, and the“loophole”through which he crawled could only have been detected by one who was constantly looking for a chance to“fly the coop,”using a prisoner's expression. Opportunity came to him in the following manner: It was the custom of the captain of the cellhouse to unlock the doors immediately after the men had left their cells. In the fall of the year it is still quite dark when the prisoners march into the dining room to breakfast. On the morning that Mr. B. made his escape he simply remained in his cell, and as soon as the captain of the cell house unlocked the side doors and went back to his desk came out of his cell, cautiously made his way out of one of the side doors and made a beeline for the wall near the railroad gate, negotiating the same near this point. The wall guard imagined that he saw some one go over the top of the wall and fired several shots in that direction, but it was still very dark and he was uncertain just what it was. The prisoner got away without a scratch, but, as previously stated, was recaptured a few days later. Shot by a farmer whom he tried to rob and received a bad bullet wound in one of his ankles. The farmer, however, was not aware of his identity,—had ordered[pg 62]him off his premises, but the prisoner acted in a threatening manner and was thereupon shot.About seventeen years ago another attempt to escape was made by a desperate young fellow and two companions. They evaded the guard, slipped out of the shop near the wagon gate and then waited where they were not observed; then a dash for freedom through this big double gate as it swung open to permit a team to pass out. All three were apprehended shortly afterwards under the warehouse building of the Minnesota Thresher Co., where they had sought temporary refuge. This was just opposite the prison. It is very improbable that any more attempts will be made through this gate, a guard now being stationed on the wall above the gate and one across the street. Formerly there was but one guard in charge of the gate, which had a tendency to invite attack at this quarter.Prison BandPrison BandPrison Band In ParkPrison Band In ParkPrison Train Backing Into Prison Yard to be Loaded with TwinePrison Train Backing Into Prison Yard to be Loaded with TwineTrain Leaving Prison Yard After LoadingTrain Leaving Prison Yard After LoadingAbout twenty-five years ago a prisoner, Frank Landis by name, made as successful an escape as was ever made from any institution. He sawed the bars on one of the cell house windows, squeezed himself through and has never been heard from since. Landis had arrived in St. Paul one day and victimized business men out of nearly twenty-five thousand dollars. He represented himself to be the son of a rich merchant of La Crosse, Wis., and, to allay suspicion, invited one of the merchants to telegraph at his expense as to his credentials. He evidently had a confederate at the other end of the line, as word came back that he was O. K. After getting this merchant to cash his checks he next induced him to introduce the generous buyer to other merchants, the aforesaid merchant vouching for his standing in each instance. One[pg 63][pg 64][pg 65]man became suspicious, and early the next morning communicated with La Crosse and received immediate advice that the name was unknown. Then the hunt for Landis began, but he had departed for parts unknown, was later captured and received twenty years in the Stillwater penitentiary. Here his stay was of short duration, as he soon made his escape.On a previous page we stated that there had been but one escape from the Minnesota State Prison since Mr. Wolfer has been warden. Recently, however, a“trusty,”who had been acting as coachman, took advantage of the freedom allowed him and disappeared. This is not considered by the officials as an escape in the true sense of the word. Below we give the“trusty's”picture with the Bertillon Measurements.Allus PetwrayHeight, 1 m 75 1Height 5 ft. 9 in.Outs A 1 m 82Trunk 90Head Length 19.8Head Width 15.3Cheek Width 13.6R. Ear 7.2L. Foot 27.4d1L. Mid F. 11.6L. Lit. F. 9.2L Forearm 48.1[pg 66]Name, Allus Petwray, No. 2654. Nationality, African; age, 30; color, Negro; build, muscular; complexion, M. brown; hair, black; eyes, Mar. deep; weight. 161.Sentenced March 1, 1909; term, 2½ years. From Polk county, for the crime of grand larceny, second degree.Marks and scars: 1 cut:- hor. rec. 1.5 c at 3 d ph. R. III-Cut:- rec. hor. 4c at on & sr. of cen. sr. brw. III-Cic;- rec. ob. 1c at slt. over & sr. out. pt. sr. eye. III-cut:-rec. ver. sit. ob. 3c at 2.5 to front dx. tragus. III-Cut:-rec. ob. 8c at 3 over dx. ear.Occupation, coachman.This photograph and record of Bertillon Measurements has been sent broadcast to all the police departments in the United States and Canada, and his recapture will probably be“only a question of time.”BREAKING INTO PRISONWe have just related some cases where men have broken out of prison, and it is in order to state the facts regarding a robbery that took place at the prison. A man actually broke into prison for the purpose of stealing. He had procured a rope ladder and scaled one of the rear walls, made his way to the Western Shoe company's factory and selected the finest case of shoes he could find. He then retraced his way to the wall, tied a rope to the case of shoes, climbed up and went away as though the act of stealing shoes from a penitentiary was an every-day accomplishment for him. He was also captured, and it was then discovered that he had been a former inmate, accounting for his familiarity with the grounds. The place is constantly patroled by two night watchmen, and it is still a mystery how he managed to evade them. This act might have been performed out of a spirit of reckless bravado to demonstrate to the other inmates that he was fully capable. His little stunt, however, cost him another residence of three and one-half years at the prison.[pg 67]THE PAROLE SYSTEMThe state of Minnesota was one of the first to introduce the grading and parole systems in its prison. Speaking of this feature, Warden Wolfer says:“We have paroled 934 prisoners since the parole law went into effect in 1894. We now have 72 prisoners on parole, three of whom are females. Of those paroled 716 were committed on a definite sentence, and 218 on Reformatory Plan.”“The grading and parole law continues to work satisfactorily and gives much promise and encouragement for the future. We are often disappointed by the failure of promising parole men to make good, but on the other hand, we are as often encouraged by the less promising who have made good beyond our most sanguine expectations. All of which demonstrates the limitation of human judgment and the difficulty of‘reading the human heart aright.’Most of those who break parole are carried over the line by some weakness, usually intemperance, a weakness that they do not seem able to control.”“We are glad to be able to say that our expedience with the grading and parole system gives us growing encouragement and hope for the future, because we believe we have hopeful and satisfying evidence that few men break their parole because of the desire to do wrong. As a rule, the parole breaker heartily regrets his misstep, and frequently will make good if given another chance.”“The parole embodies those ethical principles of conduct that make for normal life and good character. Rationally and constructively applied, it builds up and encourages manhood and at the same time it discourages a disposition to yield to weakening impulses that lead to wrongdoing. Every possible effort should be made to apprehend and return the fugitive parole breaker, for if allowed to remain at large he is almost sure to become a confirmed criminal. Therefore, a more thorough supervision of paroled prisoners is necessary, and a more accurate system for the apprehension and identification of parole breakers seems imperative in every state, and throughout the country, wherever the parole system is in vogue.”[pg 68]“Of the 934 prisoners paroled 59 per cent were finally discharged by reason of expiration of definite sentence; 13 2-3 per cent, who were committed on the Reformatory Plan, were discharged by the board after having given satisfactory evidence of a desire and purpose to live honestly and become good citizens; 19 2-3 per cent of the whole number paroled violated their paroles; 17 1-3 per cent of the whole number were returned to prison to serve unexpired sentences, leaving 2 1-3 per cent parole violators now at large.”This system has had a marked tendency to improve the discipline of the prison, for it impels inmates to bend every effort to merit this consideration at the hands of the state authorities. The state law governing the parole of prisoners from the penitentiary is as follows:THE PAROLE LAWParole of Prisoners,—The State Board of Control may parole any prisoner: Provided,1.No convict shall be paroled who has been previously convicted of a felony other than the one for which he is serving sentence, either in this state or elsewhere.2.No convict serving a time sentence shall be paroled until he shall have served at least one-half of his full term, not reckoning good time.3.No convict serving a life sentence shall be paroled until he has served thirty-five years, less the diminution which would have been allowed for good conduct had his sentence been for thirty-five years, and then only by unanimous consent, in writing, of the members of the Board of Pardons.4.Such convicts while on parole shall remain in the legal custody and under control of the Board of Control, subject at any time to be returned to the prison or reformatory, and the written order of said board, certified by the Warden, shall be a sufficient warrant to any officer to retake and return to actual custody any such convict. Geographical limits wholly within[pg 69][pg 70][pg 71]the state may be fixed in each case, and the same enlarged or reduced according to the conduct of the prisoners.5.In considering applications for parole said board shall not entertain any petition, receive any written communication, or bear any argument from any attorney or other person not connected with said prison, in favor of the parole of any prisoner, but it may institute inquiries by correspondence or otherwise as to the previous history or character of such prisoner.At the present time nearly all the states have inaugurated the parole and grading system similar to the law in operation in this state, and some are considering the advisability of introducing the system. This law is one of the best measures of the so-called modern penology and one in which the leading authorities on such matters feel the most pride.Dynamited Safe, Stephen, Minn.This cut shows the condition of the safe and office of the State Bank of Stephen, Minn., after being wrecked by dynamite. This was done by three men. One escaped, one gave state's evidence and the other is now serving a term at the Minnesota State Prison.Warden's OfficeWarden's OfficeDIMINUTION OF SENTENCEThe following law will give the reader an idea of the“good time”the prisoner earns during imprisonment, and is another powerful incentive toward good conduct. Few prisoners permit themselves to commit violations of rules, the gravity of which subjects them to punishment. A man may be deprived of good time for refusing to obey an order, fighting, insolence to guard, foreman or fellow-prisoner.Diminution of Sentence.—Every convict sentenced for a definite term other than life, whether confined in the state prison or on parole therefrom, may diminish such term as follows:1.For each month, commencing on the day of his arrival, during which he has not violated any prison rule or discipline, and has labored with diligence and fidelity, five days.2.After one year of such conduct, seven days for each month.3.After two years of such conduct, nine days for each month.4.After three years, ten days for each month for the entire time thereafter.Said board, in view of the aggravated nature and frequency of offenses, may take away any or all of the good time previously gained, and, in consideration of mitigating circumstances or ignorance on the part of the convict, may afterwards restore him, in whole or in part, to the standing he possessed before such good time was taken away. Whenever a convict shall pass the entire period of his imprisonment without an unexcused violation of the rules or discipline, upon his discharge he shall be restored to his rights and privileges forfeited by conviction, and receive from the governor a certificate, under the seal of the state, as evidence of such restorationDISCHARGE ALLOWANCEIn some states there is little or no provision for aiding the discharged prisoner, and in some states when parole is granted his prospective employer must first send railroad fare before he is released. In many states the discharged man is given five dollars in money, while in others he is permitted to earn money during his imprisonment. The following is the law that governs in the state of Minnesota:Upon discharge the Warden, at the expense of the state, shall furnish each convict released with one good, serviceable suit of clothing and underclothing, and, when released between October 1 and March 31 following, with a good, serviceable overcoat; and he shall pay to each convict, when released, $25 in money drawn from the current expense fund.Decoration: Keys, Ball and Chain[pg 73]THE CELLHOUSE BUILDINGWithin the cellhouse building there are 664 cells, ranged tier upon tier, there being six in all. The building is constructed entirely of iron and stone, and the walls are nearly three feet thick. It is safe to say that in this solidly built building more human sorrow is represented than anywhere else in the state. If an authentic record could be made of the tragedies that take place behind these grim, unsympathetic stone walls it would fill volumes. However, it would require the enviable intellect of a Victor Hugo or Charles Read to vividly picture the utter despair and blasted hopes of the many thousands who have been imprisoned within these cheerless walls since the construction of the building. It is absolutely fireproof, but quite antiquated, the sanitation and ventilation being extremely poor. About fifteen prisoners are employed in the cell house, sweeping cells, galleries, passing out water, holystoning the flags in the corridor and keeping the place as clean as possible. Two men are constantly employed in whitewashing the cells and the interior of the cell house, and another's time is wholly occupied in exterminating bedbugs, which are quite plentiful and possess large appetites.The captain makes a tour of the galleries each morning and inspects each cell to see that everything is in order. If a cell floor or other articles are in a slovenly condition the inmate is reported to the deputy warden, whose duty it is to administer a reprimand for negligence. While making this four of inspection he delivers all incoming letters addressed to prisoners. All incoming and outgoing mail is carefully scrutinized before delivery. On Sunday morning material for writing letters[pg 74]is issued to all prisoners who are permitted to write, and the distribution of tobacco is also made at this time. The upper tiers of the galleries used to be the rendezvous for inmates possessing suicidal inclinations, not a few of whom, having lost all courage and lacking the determination to live, chose this method of ending their woes. We use the words“used to be”advisedly, for they have ceased to be an attraction to the death-desiring since the failure to accomplish the result occurred to an inmate who a short time ago took the plunge from the upper tier. In an hour or so he was at work as if nothing unusual had happened. Heretofore a plunge from the upper tiers to the stone flags always meant a call for the undertaker.Cellhouse, Looking EastCellhouse, Looking EastPrison BandPrison BandSpinning Room In Twine Factory looking West.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking West.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking East.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking East.[pg 75][pg 76][pg 77]THE CHAUTAUQUA CIRCLEThere is in existence in the Minnesota State Prison a Chautauqua circle, being a branch of the main organization, conducted entirely by the inmates and the presiding officers elected from the members thereof.Election of officers occurs once a year. Meetings are held fortnightly in the prison chapel, at which time several papers are read and discussed by the members. At the conclusion of the meeting a critic chosen from the circle reviews the program, points out various errors in composition papers or commends them as the case may be.The membership of this unique organization numbers about thirty, and as old members withdraw new ones are selected from the better educated prisoners. Meetings are always conducted in an orderly manner, not a snigle serious violation of the rules having occurred since the organization—about twenty years ago. Discussions at times becomes exceedingly spirited, especially if a paper is read that attacks the pet hobbies of the several members.As an educational feature of the institution the Chautauqua circle is accomplishing excellent work and deserves the sincere patronage and commendation of the prison authorities.BAND AND ORCHESTRALike the majority of the better-class prisons, Minnesota's penitentiary has the honor of having within its walls a well-equipped band and orchestra. They are in charge of an experienced citizen-music teacher, and have made[pg 78]remarkable progress since organization. About nineteen members compose the band, mostly men who have a long time to serve.The orchestra provides music for the services in the prison chapel, and when entertainments are given provides the musical numbers on the program. Of late years it has attained a degree of efficiency that has been commended very highly by prominent visitors to the institution.The band gives a concert each morning during the summer months and also during drill exercises, which take place in the yard every Sunday immediately after chapel service. Concerts are also given in the park on holidays, when the men are enjoying outdoor freedom, which the inmates appreciate very much, helping wonderfully to break the dull, routine monotony of prison life. The band and orchestra cost the state very little, its instruments are paid for out of the fees received from visitors, who pay a twenty-five cent admission to see the institution. This amount is donated for the benefit of the library fund.PRISON NIGHT SCHOOLThe prison that now neglects to provide suitable educational facilities for the instruction of its inmates is considered behind the times. A great many inmates of penitentiaries are illiterate, and the prison night schools afford an excellent opportunity to acquire the fundamentals of a good education. This department is under the supervision of the superintendent of public schools of Stillwater, who is assisted by a corps of teachers chosen from among the inmates. The course of study[pg 79]corresponds to the course pursued in the state primary and grammar schools. There are fourteen classes, ranging from a, b, c class to one in advanced bookkeeping. Three sessions are held weekly, and the school is popular among the prisoners. Those serving reformatory sentences are compelled to attend, but the voluntary attendance is always in excess of the compulsory. During the season of 1907-08 the average attendance was 164, and of this number 48 were compelled to attend, while the balance, 116, attended voluntarily.The prison night school is in operation eight months during the year, and is well partronized, many inmates receiving their first instructions in reading and writing during their period of service. To the ambitious man there is plenty of opportunity for self-improvement, so it can readily be seen that no one need wholly waste the time that he is compelled to serve for infraction of state laws. When school is not in session inmates are granted permission to have all the school books they require in pursuance of studies.THE SHOE INDUSTRY.This factory is conducted by the Western Shoe Co., and annually employs about 225 prisoners. There is an excellent opportunity here for the inmate to learn a trade at which he can make a good living upon his release. Few citizens are employed at this work, but a competent citizen-foreman is in charge of each shop. As far as possible prisoners are taught the business of making shoes, and many of them become very proficient at this work.The company pays a stated price for each piece of[pg 80]work turned out, and the per diem earnings of the prisoners is larger than in any other prison in the country. The volume of business of these two industries amounts annually to more than $2,000,000. Of this total, returns from the twine factory, operated on state account, amount to $1,300,000, while the shoe company, operated on the piece-price system, does a business in excess of $800,000.THE REPAIR SHOP.All the repair work of the institution is performed in this department, and in this shop are located the tinner, plumbers, carpenters, painters, machinists, etc., all under the supervision of a first-class foreman. The tinner makes all the tinware used in the various departments of the prison and attends to its repairing. As the entire institution is heated by steam, the plumbers are kept constantly employed during the winter repairing radiators and overhauling wornout steam pipes. As repairs and improvements are constantly being made and as the prison buildings are quite old, considerable carpenter work is also necessitated each year.Perhaps the busiest men in this shop are the machinists, whose business it is to see that all machinery, shafting, etc., are kept in repair, thus reducing breakdowns to the minimum. This shop is run in an economical manner and annually saves the state thousands of dollars.

PRISON HUMOR.Several years ago there was an inmate in the Stillwater penitentiary who unconsciously perpetrated one of the best jokes that had been heard at the institution for some time. He was a German and a hard-working carpenter by trade. He was honest to a fault and led a model life while on the outside. The crime for which he was sentenced was assault on a fellow workman, and for this offense he received a two-year sentence at the Stillwater penitentiary. He was immediately put to work for the Minnesota Thresher Co., being assigned work in one of the carpenter shops. One day he forgot to take his plug of chewing tobacco with him to the shop, having left it laying on the small table in his cell. That evening when he came in from work he found the plug of tobacco missing. He at once began calling for one of the night guards, and on that gentleman's arrival the prisoner remarked:“Say, Mr. Guard, dere must pe thieves in dis here blace. Mine tobacco's she was gone, und I harms noboddies. I dink ve petter send for dere bolicemans und catch sum uf dem rascals.”The foregoing story is absolutely authentic, and was told again and again by the prisoners who appreciate a good joke as keenly as their free brothers. It also brings out rather forcibly the fact that, notwithstanding the man was in prison, he was still honest.[pg 57]THE VERSATILE PRISONER.It is quite generally known that the prisoners at the Minnesota state prison are prohibited from talking, and what conversation there is, generally takes place on a holiday or is permitted in cases where their work makes talking necessary. One day there was committed to the prison a man who was proficient in a dozen different languages. The deputy warden was examining the man as to his birth, nationality, religion, etc., and when he asked the prisoner his nationality he replied that he could talk in several different languages.“Hump,”grunted the deputy,“we talk English here and d— little of that.”CAPT.“JACK”CRAWFORD'S JOKE ON THE GUARDS.Several years ago the poet-scout, Capt.“Jack”Crawford, delivered a lecture in the prison chapel to the inmates. In passing it is well to state that this well-known lecturer makes it a point to visit the various penal and charitable institutions throughout the country free of charge, hence his friendly call at the Stillwater prison.During the course of Mr. Crawford's remarks he paused in his discourse and said:“Men, I heartily sympathize with you for being in the unfortunate condition you are, but (and the speaker pointed his hands at each side of the room where the guards were stationed) if these high-toned gentlemen in blue uniforms were dressed in the same clothes you are and placed among you, why I couldn't tell the difference between you!”This unintentional joke at the guards caused a great deal of applause, but when Mr. Crawford's remarks are[pg 58]examined by cold, logic, it will be found that he simply told the truth and that the dissimilarity is a question of clothes and nothing else.FEEDING THE DONKEYS.When the prison band was first organized the inmate musicians made a noise that was something indescribable. It sounded like a sawmill blowing up, or a handsaw striking a 60-penny spike. One day one of the highly-strung nervous chaps went up to the deputy warden and asked permission to buy a bale of hay.“What do you want hay for?”asked the deputy.“Why,”replied the prisoner,“I would like to present a bale of hay to those jackasses in the park who are making all that confounded noise.”TRICKS OF PRISONERS WHO SHAM ILLNESSA prison is not an admirable place for those disinclined to work. A man occasionally succeeds in hoodwinking the authorities for a time, but this rarely occurs. Whenever there is a reasonable doubt the prisoner is given the benefit of it. A case in particular is that of one Mr. B., who complained that the entire lower part of his body was paralyzed and that he was unable to walk. He was given a pair of crutches and put in the hospital ward, where he lived well, his wants supplied by the attendants and where he had absolutely nothing to do. The doctors suspected that he was faking and secretly applied tests to verify their belief. Evidently the man was on his guard and fully acquainted with the various modes of procedure in such cases, for he stood the tests unflinchingly.[pg 59]Finally Warden Wolfer took his case under personal charge and evolved a plan that the clever prisoner had not figured on as one of the possibilities of detection. The strategy was this: A newly-appointed guard was dressed in a third-grade suit of convict clothes on the day when the prisoners in the crank department were given their weekly shave. Mr. B. was sitting on the bench waiting to be shaved. The deputy warden stepped into the room with the alleged third-grade prisoner and gruffly ordered him to be seated, then turned to the barber and told him to shave the third-grade man next, as he was in a hurry. Not an inkling of suspicion flashed across Mr. B.'s brain. In the door leading into this ward a small peep-hole is arranged, enabling the guard to look into the room without entering. The warden was stationed behind this door to observe the results of this scheme. As the third-grade“prisoner”sat down to be shaved he suddenly seized one of the barber's razors, and, with a whoop, jumped out of the chair and made for the“helpless”Mr. B., who immediately cast aside his crutches and rushed down the corridor to escape from the supposed demented“prisoner.”The fact that his legs were paralyzed and that he was acting a part was entirely forgotten.At this stage of the proceedings the warden entered the room and informed the crestfallen Mr. B. that the comedy was over. At first he was inclined to continue the paralytic roll, but when informed that he had the option of going to work or taking an indefinite stay on a bread-and-water diet he wisely chose the first alternative, and for the remainder of his term gave no more trouble.Another case of shirking is that of Mr. M., who is a life prisoner and who has spent over a quarter of a[pg 60]century behind the bars of Minnesota's famous penal institution. He insisted that something was wrong with his limbs and that he could not walk; that he needed the assistance of crutches, but one night one of the nurses observed him walking back and forth in his cell, evidently taking a needed constitutional. He was sent to work in a few days and is today walking as successfully as ever. He employed this deception for many years.A“HORSE”ON THE PRISON PHYSICIAN.Some time ago there arrived at the prison a man who appeared to be, as far as visible appearances were concerned, a chronic sufferer from epileptic fits. On the day he entered prison he had two of these fits, and almost every day thereafter they occurred with surprising frequency. The assistant physician was always called on these occasions, but could do nothing for the sufferer, he being thoroughly convinced that the fits were the real article. The prisoner was given an easy position in the cellhouse, as it was considered too dangerous to have him working in the shops alongside of the machines, belting, etc.Finally, however, this easy job began to pall on the epileptic prisoner's nerves; and he asked the deputy warden to be transferred to the shops.“I can't do it,”said the deputy,“as it would be against the physician's orders to change your work.”“Well, if that is the case I will have to cut out the fit business,”replied the prisoner.“What do you mean?”asked the deputy warden.“These fits are all fakes,”smilingly retorted the prisoner,“and I can cut them out any time.”[pg 61]“The only way you can convince me that these epileptic fits are not genuine is to stop having them. If you do this for thirty days, I will give you any job you want.”The prisoner got the job, greatly to the mystification of the physicians and the deputy warden.ESCAPES FROM PRISONThere has been but one successful escape during the eighteen years that Warden Wolfer has had charge of the prison. A capture was, however, effected a few days later. The escape was neatly planned, and the“loophole”through which he crawled could only have been detected by one who was constantly looking for a chance to“fly the coop,”using a prisoner's expression. Opportunity came to him in the following manner: It was the custom of the captain of the cellhouse to unlock the doors immediately after the men had left their cells. In the fall of the year it is still quite dark when the prisoners march into the dining room to breakfast. On the morning that Mr. B. made his escape he simply remained in his cell, and as soon as the captain of the cell house unlocked the side doors and went back to his desk came out of his cell, cautiously made his way out of one of the side doors and made a beeline for the wall near the railroad gate, negotiating the same near this point. The wall guard imagined that he saw some one go over the top of the wall and fired several shots in that direction, but it was still very dark and he was uncertain just what it was. The prisoner got away without a scratch, but, as previously stated, was recaptured a few days later. Shot by a farmer whom he tried to rob and received a bad bullet wound in one of his ankles. The farmer, however, was not aware of his identity,—had ordered[pg 62]him off his premises, but the prisoner acted in a threatening manner and was thereupon shot.About seventeen years ago another attempt to escape was made by a desperate young fellow and two companions. They evaded the guard, slipped out of the shop near the wagon gate and then waited where they were not observed; then a dash for freedom through this big double gate as it swung open to permit a team to pass out. All three were apprehended shortly afterwards under the warehouse building of the Minnesota Thresher Co., where they had sought temporary refuge. This was just opposite the prison. It is very improbable that any more attempts will be made through this gate, a guard now being stationed on the wall above the gate and one across the street. Formerly there was but one guard in charge of the gate, which had a tendency to invite attack at this quarter.Prison BandPrison BandPrison Band In ParkPrison Band In ParkPrison Train Backing Into Prison Yard to be Loaded with TwinePrison Train Backing Into Prison Yard to be Loaded with TwineTrain Leaving Prison Yard After LoadingTrain Leaving Prison Yard After LoadingAbout twenty-five years ago a prisoner, Frank Landis by name, made as successful an escape as was ever made from any institution. He sawed the bars on one of the cell house windows, squeezed himself through and has never been heard from since. Landis had arrived in St. Paul one day and victimized business men out of nearly twenty-five thousand dollars. He represented himself to be the son of a rich merchant of La Crosse, Wis., and, to allay suspicion, invited one of the merchants to telegraph at his expense as to his credentials. He evidently had a confederate at the other end of the line, as word came back that he was O. K. After getting this merchant to cash his checks he next induced him to introduce the generous buyer to other merchants, the aforesaid merchant vouching for his standing in each instance. One[pg 63][pg 64][pg 65]man became suspicious, and early the next morning communicated with La Crosse and received immediate advice that the name was unknown. Then the hunt for Landis began, but he had departed for parts unknown, was later captured and received twenty years in the Stillwater penitentiary. Here his stay was of short duration, as he soon made his escape.On a previous page we stated that there had been but one escape from the Minnesota State Prison since Mr. Wolfer has been warden. Recently, however, a“trusty,”who had been acting as coachman, took advantage of the freedom allowed him and disappeared. This is not considered by the officials as an escape in the true sense of the word. Below we give the“trusty's”picture with the Bertillon Measurements.Allus PetwrayHeight, 1 m 75 1Height 5 ft. 9 in.Outs A 1 m 82Trunk 90Head Length 19.8Head Width 15.3Cheek Width 13.6R. Ear 7.2L. Foot 27.4d1L. Mid F. 11.6L. Lit. F. 9.2L Forearm 48.1[pg 66]Name, Allus Petwray, No. 2654. Nationality, African; age, 30; color, Negro; build, muscular; complexion, M. brown; hair, black; eyes, Mar. deep; weight. 161.Sentenced March 1, 1909; term, 2½ years. From Polk county, for the crime of grand larceny, second degree.Marks and scars: 1 cut:- hor. rec. 1.5 c at 3 d ph. R. III-Cut:- rec. hor. 4c at on & sr. of cen. sr. brw. III-Cic;- rec. ob. 1c at slt. over & sr. out. pt. sr. eye. III-cut:-rec. ver. sit. ob. 3c at 2.5 to front dx. tragus. III-Cut:-rec. ob. 8c at 3 over dx. ear.Occupation, coachman.This photograph and record of Bertillon Measurements has been sent broadcast to all the police departments in the United States and Canada, and his recapture will probably be“only a question of time.”BREAKING INTO PRISONWe have just related some cases where men have broken out of prison, and it is in order to state the facts regarding a robbery that took place at the prison. A man actually broke into prison for the purpose of stealing. He had procured a rope ladder and scaled one of the rear walls, made his way to the Western Shoe company's factory and selected the finest case of shoes he could find. He then retraced his way to the wall, tied a rope to the case of shoes, climbed up and went away as though the act of stealing shoes from a penitentiary was an every-day accomplishment for him. He was also captured, and it was then discovered that he had been a former inmate, accounting for his familiarity with the grounds. The place is constantly patroled by two night watchmen, and it is still a mystery how he managed to evade them. This act might have been performed out of a spirit of reckless bravado to demonstrate to the other inmates that he was fully capable. His little stunt, however, cost him another residence of three and one-half years at the prison.[pg 67]THE PAROLE SYSTEMThe state of Minnesota was one of the first to introduce the grading and parole systems in its prison. Speaking of this feature, Warden Wolfer says:“We have paroled 934 prisoners since the parole law went into effect in 1894. We now have 72 prisoners on parole, three of whom are females. Of those paroled 716 were committed on a definite sentence, and 218 on Reformatory Plan.”“The grading and parole law continues to work satisfactorily and gives much promise and encouragement for the future. We are often disappointed by the failure of promising parole men to make good, but on the other hand, we are as often encouraged by the less promising who have made good beyond our most sanguine expectations. All of which demonstrates the limitation of human judgment and the difficulty of‘reading the human heart aright.’Most of those who break parole are carried over the line by some weakness, usually intemperance, a weakness that they do not seem able to control.”“We are glad to be able to say that our expedience with the grading and parole system gives us growing encouragement and hope for the future, because we believe we have hopeful and satisfying evidence that few men break their parole because of the desire to do wrong. As a rule, the parole breaker heartily regrets his misstep, and frequently will make good if given another chance.”“The parole embodies those ethical principles of conduct that make for normal life and good character. Rationally and constructively applied, it builds up and encourages manhood and at the same time it discourages a disposition to yield to weakening impulses that lead to wrongdoing. Every possible effort should be made to apprehend and return the fugitive parole breaker, for if allowed to remain at large he is almost sure to become a confirmed criminal. Therefore, a more thorough supervision of paroled prisoners is necessary, and a more accurate system for the apprehension and identification of parole breakers seems imperative in every state, and throughout the country, wherever the parole system is in vogue.”[pg 68]“Of the 934 prisoners paroled 59 per cent were finally discharged by reason of expiration of definite sentence; 13 2-3 per cent, who were committed on the Reformatory Plan, were discharged by the board after having given satisfactory evidence of a desire and purpose to live honestly and become good citizens; 19 2-3 per cent of the whole number paroled violated their paroles; 17 1-3 per cent of the whole number were returned to prison to serve unexpired sentences, leaving 2 1-3 per cent parole violators now at large.”This system has had a marked tendency to improve the discipline of the prison, for it impels inmates to bend every effort to merit this consideration at the hands of the state authorities. The state law governing the parole of prisoners from the penitentiary is as follows:THE PAROLE LAWParole of Prisoners,—The State Board of Control may parole any prisoner: Provided,1.No convict shall be paroled who has been previously convicted of a felony other than the one for which he is serving sentence, either in this state or elsewhere.2.No convict serving a time sentence shall be paroled until he shall have served at least one-half of his full term, not reckoning good time.3.No convict serving a life sentence shall be paroled until he has served thirty-five years, less the diminution which would have been allowed for good conduct had his sentence been for thirty-five years, and then only by unanimous consent, in writing, of the members of the Board of Pardons.4.Such convicts while on parole shall remain in the legal custody and under control of the Board of Control, subject at any time to be returned to the prison or reformatory, and the written order of said board, certified by the Warden, shall be a sufficient warrant to any officer to retake and return to actual custody any such convict. Geographical limits wholly within[pg 69][pg 70][pg 71]the state may be fixed in each case, and the same enlarged or reduced according to the conduct of the prisoners.5.In considering applications for parole said board shall not entertain any petition, receive any written communication, or bear any argument from any attorney or other person not connected with said prison, in favor of the parole of any prisoner, but it may institute inquiries by correspondence or otherwise as to the previous history or character of such prisoner.At the present time nearly all the states have inaugurated the parole and grading system similar to the law in operation in this state, and some are considering the advisability of introducing the system. This law is one of the best measures of the so-called modern penology and one in which the leading authorities on such matters feel the most pride.Dynamited Safe, Stephen, Minn.This cut shows the condition of the safe and office of the State Bank of Stephen, Minn., after being wrecked by dynamite. This was done by three men. One escaped, one gave state's evidence and the other is now serving a term at the Minnesota State Prison.Warden's OfficeWarden's OfficeDIMINUTION OF SENTENCEThe following law will give the reader an idea of the“good time”the prisoner earns during imprisonment, and is another powerful incentive toward good conduct. Few prisoners permit themselves to commit violations of rules, the gravity of which subjects them to punishment. A man may be deprived of good time for refusing to obey an order, fighting, insolence to guard, foreman or fellow-prisoner.Diminution of Sentence.—Every convict sentenced for a definite term other than life, whether confined in the state prison or on parole therefrom, may diminish such term as follows:1.For each month, commencing on the day of his arrival, during which he has not violated any prison rule or discipline, and has labored with diligence and fidelity, five days.2.After one year of such conduct, seven days for each month.3.After two years of such conduct, nine days for each month.4.After three years, ten days for each month for the entire time thereafter.Said board, in view of the aggravated nature and frequency of offenses, may take away any or all of the good time previously gained, and, in consideration of mitigating circumstances or ignorance on the part of the convict, may afterwards restore him, in whole or in part, to the standing he possessed before such good time was taken away. Whenever a convict shall pass the entire period of his imprisonment without an unexcused violation of the rules or discipline, upon his discharge he shall be restored to his rights and privileges forfeited by conviction, and receive from the governor a certificate, under the seal of the state, as evidence of such restorationDISCHARGE ALLOWANCEIn some states there is little or no provision for aiding the discharged prisoner, and in some states when parole is granted his prospective employer must first send railroad fare before he is released. In many states the discharged man is given five dollars in money, while in others he is permitted to earn money during his imprisonment. The following is the law that governs in the state of Minnesota:Upon discharge the Warden, at the expense of the state, shall furnish each convict released with one good, serviceable suit of clothing and underclothing, and, when released between October 1 and March 31 following, with a good, serviceable overcoat; and he shall pay to each convict, when released, $25 in money drawn from the current expense fund.Decoration: Keys, Ball and Chain[pg 73]THE CELLHOUSE BUILDINGWithin the cellhouse building there are 664 cells, ranged tier upon tier, there being six in all. The building is constructed entirely of iron and stone, and the walls are nearly three feet thick. It is safe to say that in this solidly built building more human sorrow is represented than anywhere else in the state. If an authentic record could be made of the tragedies that take place behind these grim, unsympathetic stone walls it would fill volumes. However, it would require the enviable intellect of a Victor Hugo or Charles Read to vividly picture the utter despair and blasted hopes of the many thousands who have been imprisoned within these cheerless walls since the construction of the building. It is absolutely fireproof, but quite antiquated, the sanitation and ventilation being extremely poor. About fifteen prisoners are employed in the cell house, sweeping cells, galleries, passing out water, holystoning the flags in the corridor and keeping the place as clean as possible. Two men are constantly employed in whitewashing the cells and the interior of the cell house, and another's time is wholly occupied in exterminating bedbugs, which are quite plentiful and possess large appetites.The captain makes a tour of the galleries each morning and inspects each cell to see that everything is in order. If a cell floor or other articles are in a slovenly condition the inmate is reported to the deputy warden, whose duty it is to administer a reprimand for negligence. While making this four of inspection he delivers all incoming letters addressed to prisoners. All incoming and outgoing mail is carefully scrutinized before delivery. On Sunday morning material for writing letters[pg 74]is issued to all prisoners who are permitted to write, and the distribution of tobacco is also made at this time. The upper tiers of the galleries used to be the rendezvous for inmates possessing suicidal inclinations, not a few of whom, having lost all courage and lacking the determination to live, chose this method of ending their woes. We use the words“used to be”advisedly, for they have ceased to be an attraction to the death-desiring since the failure to accomplish the result occurred to an inmate who a short time ago took the plunge from the upper tier. In an hour or so he was at work as if nothing unusual had happened. Heretofore a plunge from the upper tiers to the stone flags always meant a call for the undertaker.Cellhouse, Looking EastCellhouse, Looking EastPrison BandPrison BandSpinning Room In Twine Factory looking West.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking West.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking East.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking East.[pg 75][pg 76][pg 77]THE CHAUTAUQUA CIRCLEThere is in existence in the Minnesota State Prison a Chautauqua circle, being a branch of the main organization, conducted entirely by the inmates and the presiding officers elected from the members thereof.Election of officers occurs once a year. Meetings are held fortnightly in the prison chapel, at which time several papers are read and discussed by the members. At the conclusion of the meeting a critic chosen from the circle reviews the program, points out various errors in composition papers or commends them as the case may be.The membership of this unique organization numbers about thirty, and as old members withdraw new ones are selected from the better educated prisoners. Meetings are always conducted in an orderly manner, not a snigle serious violation of the rules having occurred since the organization—about twenty years ago. Discussions at times becomes exceedingly spirited, especially if a paper is read that attacks the pet hobbies of the several members.As an educational feature of the institution the Chautauqua circle is accomplishing excellent work and deserves the sincere patronage and commendation of the prison authorities.BAND AND ORCHESTRALike the majority of the better-class prisons, Minnesota's penitentiary has the honor of having within its walls a well-equipped band and orchestra. They are in charge of an experienced citizen-music teacher, and have made[pg 78]remarkable progress since organization. About nineteen members compose the band, mostly men who have a long time to serve.The orchestra provides music for the services in the prison chapel, and when entertainments are given provides the musical numbers on the program. Of late years it has attained a degree of efficiency that has been commended very highly by prominent visitors to the institution.The band gives a concert each morning during the summer months and also during drill exercises, which take place in the yard every Sunday immediately after chapel service. Concerts are also given in the park on holidays, when the men are enjoying outdoor freedom, which the inmates appreciate very much, helping wonderfully to break the dull, routine monotony of prison life. The band and orchestra cost the state very little, its instruments are paid for out of the fees received from visitors, who pay a twenty-five cent admission to see the institution. This amount is donated for the benefit of the library fund.PRISON NIGHT SCHOOLThe prison that now neglects to provide suitable educational facilities for the instruction of its inmates is considered behind the times. A great many inmates of penitentiaries are illiterate, and the prison night schools afford an excellent opportunity to acquire the fundamentals of a good education. This department is under the supervision of the superintendent of public schools of Stillwater, who is assisted by a corps of teachers chosen from among the inmates. The course of study[pg 79]corresponds to the course pursued in the state primary and grammar schools. There are fourteen classes, ranging from a, b, c class to one in advanced bookkeeping. Three sessions are held weekly, and the school is popular among the prisoners. Those serving reformatory sentences are compelled to attend, but the voluntary attendance is always in excess of the compulsory. During the season of 1907-08 the average attendance was 164, and of this number 48 were compelled to attend, while the balance, 116, attended voluntarily.The prison night school is in operation eight months during the year, and is well partronized, many inmates receiving their first instructions in reading and writing during their period of service. To the ambitious man there is plenty of opportunity for self-improvement, so it can readily be seen that no one need wholly waste the time that he is compelled to serve for infraction of state laws. When school is not in session inmates are granted permission to have all the school books they require in pursuance of studies.THE SHOE INDUSTRY.This factory is conducted by the Western Shoe Co., and annually employs about 225 prisoners. There is an excellent opportunity here for the inmate to learn a trade at which he can make a good living upon his release. Few citizens are employed at this work, but a competent citizen-foreman is in charge of each shop. As far as possible prisoners are taught the business of making shoes, and many of them become very proficient at this work.The company pays a stated price for each piece of[pg 80]work turned out, and the per diem earnings of the prisoners is larger than in any other prison in the country. The volume of business of these two industries amounts annually to more than $2,000,000. Of this total, returns from the twine factory, operated on state account, amount to $1,300,000, while the shoe company, operated on the piece-price system, does a business in excess of $800,000.THE REPAIR SHOP.All the repair work of the institution is performed in this department, and in this shop are located the tinner, plumbers, carpenters, painters, machinists, etc., all under the supervision of a first-class foreman. The tinner makes all the tinware used in the various departments of the prison and attends to its repairing. As the entire institution is heated by steam, the plumbers are kept constantly employed during the winter repairing radiators and overhauling wornout steam pipes. As repairs and improvements are constantly being made and as the prison buildings are quite old, considerable carpenter work is also necessitated each year.Perhaps the busiest men in this shop are the machinists, whose business it is to see that all machinery, shafting, etc., are kept in repair, thus reducing breakdowns to the minimum. This shop is run in an economical manner and annually saves the state thousands of dollars.

PRISON HUMOR.Several years ago there was an inmate in the Stillwater penitentiary who unconsciously perpetrated one of the best jokes that had been heard at the institution for some time. He was a German and a hard-working carpenter by trade. He was honest to a fault and led a model life while on the outside. The crime for which he was sentenced was assault on a fellow workman, and for this offense he received a two-year sentence at the Stillwater penitentiary. He was immediately put to work for the Minnesota Thresher Co., being assigned work in one of the carpenter shops. One day he forgot to take his plug of chewing tobacco with him to the shop, having left it laying on the small table in his cell. That evening when he came in from work he found the plug of tobacco missing. He at once began calling for one of the night guards, and on that gentleman's arrival the prisoner remarked:“Say, Mr. Guard, dere must pe thieves in dis here blace. Mine tobacco's she was gone, und I harms noboddies. I dink ve petter send for dere bolicemans und catch sum uf dem rascals.”The foregoing story is absolutely authentic, and was told again and again by the prisoners who appreciate a good joke as keenly as their free brothers. It also brings out rather forcibly the fact that, notwithstanding the man was in prison, he was still honest.[pg 57]THE VERSATILE PRISONER.It is quite generally known that the prisoners at the Minnesota state prison are prohibited from talking, and what conversation there is, generally takes place on a holiday or is permitted in cases where their work makes talking necessary. One day there was committed to the prison a man who was proficient in a dozen different languages. The deputy warden was examining the man as to his birth, nationality, religion, etc., and when he asked the prisoner his nationality he replied that he could talk in several different languages.“Hump,”grunted the deputy,“we talk English here and d— little of that.”CAPT.“JACK”CRAWFORD'S JOKE ON THE GUARDS.Several years ago the poet-scout, Capt.“Jack”Crawford, delivered a lecture in the prison chapel to the inmates. In passing it is well to state that this well-known lecturer makes it a point to visit the various penal and charitable institutions throughout the country free of charge, hence his friendly call at the Stillwater prison.During the course of Mr. Crawford's remarks he paused in his discourse and said:“Men, I heartily sympathize with you for being in the unfortunate condition you are, but (and the speaker pointed his hands at each side of the room where the guards were stationed) if these high-toned gentlemen in blue uniforms were dressed in the same clothes you are and placed among you, why I couldn't tell the difference between you!”This unintentional joke at the guards caused a great deal of applause, but when Mr. Crawford's remarks are[pg 58]examined by cold, logic, it will be found that he simply told the truth and that the dissimilarity is a question of clothes and nothing else.FEEDING THE DONKEYS.When the prison band was first organized the inmate musicians made a noise that was something indescribable. It sounded like a sawmill blowing up, or a handsaw striking a 60-penny spike. One day one of the highly-strung nervous chaps went up to the deputy warden and asked permission to buy a bale of hay.“What do you want hay for?”asked the deputy.“Why,”replied the prisoner,“I would like to present a bale of hay to those jackasses in the park who are making all that confounded noise.”TRICKS OF PRISONERS WHO SHAM ILLNESSA prison is not an admirable place for those disinclined to work. A man occasionally succeeds in hoodwinking the authorities for a time, but this rarely occurs. Whenever there is a reasonable doubt the prisoner is given the benefit of it. A case in particular is that of one Mr. B., who complained that the entire lower part of his body was paralyzed and that he was unable to walk. He was given a pair of crutches and put in the hospital ward, where he lived well, his wants supplied by the attendants and where he had absolutely nothing to do. The doctors suspected that he was faking and secretly applied tests to verify their belief. Evidently the man was on his guard and fully acquainted with the various modes of procedure in such cases, for he stood the tests unflinchingly.[pg 59]Finally Warden Wolfer took his case under personal charge and evolved a plan that the clever prisoner had not figured on as one of the possibilities of detection. The strategy was this: A newly-appointed guard was dressed in a third-grade suit of convict clothes on the day when the prisoners in the crank department were given their weekly shave. Mr. B. was sitting on the bench waiting to be shaved. The deputy warden stepped into the room with the alleged third-grade prisoner and gruffly ordered him to be seated, then turned to the barber and told him to shave the third-grade man next, as he was in a hurry. Not an inkling of suspicion flashed across Mr. B.'s brain. In the door leading into this ward a small peep-hole is arranged, enabling the guard to look into the room without entering. The warden was stationed behind this door to observe the results of this scheme. As the third-grade“prisoner”sat down to be shaved he suddenly seized one of the barber's razors, and, with a whoop, jumped out of the chair and made for the“helpless”Mr. B., who immediately cast aside his crutches and rushed down the corridor to escape from the supposed demented“prisoner.”The fact that his legs were paralyzed and that he was acting a part was entirely forgotten.At this stage of the proceedings the warden entered the room and informed the crestfallen Mr. B. that the comedy was over. At first he was inclined to continue the paralytic roll, but when informed that he had the option of going to work or taking an indefinite stay on a bread-and-water diet he wisely chose the first alternative, and for the remainder of his term gave no more trouble.Another case of shirking is that of Mr. M., who is a life prisoner and who has spent over a quarter of a[pg 60]century behind the bars of Minnesota's famous penal institution. He insisted that something was wrong with his limbs and that he could not walk; that he needed the assistance of crutches, but one night one of the nurses observed him walking back and forth in his cell, evidently taking a needed constitutional. He was sent to work in a few days and is today walking as successfully as ever. He employed this deception for many years.A“HORSE”ON THE PRISON PHYSICIAN.Some time ago there arrived at the prison a man who appeared to be, as far as visible appearances were concerned, a chronic sufferer from epileptic fits. On the day he entered prison he had two of these fits, and almost every day thereafter they occurred with surprising frequency. The assistant physician was always called on these occasions, but could do nothing for the sufferer, he being thoroughly convinced that the fits were the real article. The prisoner was given an easy position in the cellhouse, as it was considered too dangerous to have him working in the shops alongside of the machines, belting, etc.Finally, however, this easy job began to pall on the epileptic prisoner's nerves; and he asked the deputy warden to be transferred to the shops.“I can't do it,”said the deputy,“as it would be against the physician's orders to change your work.”“Well, if that is the case I will have to cut out the fit business,”replied the prisoner.“What do you mean?”asked the deputy warden.“These fits are all fakes,”smilingly retorted the prisoner,“and I can cut them out any time.”[pg 61]“The only way you can convince me that these epileptic fits are not genuine is to stop having them. If you do this for thirty days, I will give you any job you want.”The prisoner got the job, greatly to the mystification of the physicians and the deputy warden.ESCAPES FROM PRISONThere has been but one successful escape during the eighteen years that Warden Wolfer has had charge of the prison. A capture was, however, effected a few days later. The escape was neatly planned, and the“loophole”through which he crawled could only have been detected by one who was constantly looking for a chance to“fly the coop,”using a prisoner's expression. Opportunity came to him in the following manner: It was the custom of the captain of the cellhouse to unlock the doors immediately after the men had left their cells. In the fall of the year it is still quite dark when the prisoners march into the dining room to breakfast. On the morning that Mr. B. made his escape he simply remained in his cell, and as soon as the captain of the cell house unlocked the side doors and went back to his desk came out of his cell, cautiously made his way out of one of the side doors and made a beeline for the wall near the railroad gate, negotiating the same near this point. The wall guard imagined that he saw some one go over the top of the wall and fired several shots in that direction, but it was still very dark and he was uncertain just what it was. The prisoner got away without a scratch, but, as previously stated, was recaptured a few days later. Shot by a farmer whom he tried to rob and received a bad bullet wound in one of his ankles. The farmer, however, was not aware of his identity,—had ordered[pg 62]him off his premises, but the prisoner acted in a threatening manner and was thereupon shot.About seventeen years ago another attempt to escape was made by a desperate young fellow and two companions. They evaded the guard, slipped out of the shop near the wagon gate and then waited where they were not observed; then a dash for freedom through this big double gate as it swung open to permit a team to pass out. All three were apprehended shortly afterwards under the warehouse building of the Minnesota Thresher Co., where they had sought temporary refuge. This was just opposite the prison. It is very improbable that any more attempts will be made through this gate, a guard now being stationed on the wall above the gate and one across the street. Formerly there was but one guard in charge of the gate, which had a tendency to invite attack at this quarter.Prison BandPrison BandPrison Band In ParkPrison Band In ParkPrison Train Backing Into Prison Yard to be Loaded with TwinePrison Train Backing Into Prison Yard to be Loaded with TwineTrain Leaving Prison Yard After LoadingTrain Leaving Prison Yard After LoadingAbout twenty-five years ago a prisoner, Frank Landis by name, made as successful an escape as was ever made from any institution. He sawed the bars on one of the cell house windows, squeezed himself through and has never been heard from since. Landis had arrived in St. Paul one day and victimized business men out of nearly twenty-five thousand dollars. He represented himself to be the son of a rich merchant of La Crosse, Wis., and, to allay suspicion, invited one of the merchants to telegraph at his expense as to his credentials. He evidently had a confederate at the other end of the line, as word came back that he was O. K. After getting this merchant to cash his checks he next induced him to introduce the generous buyer to other merchants, the aforesaid merchant vouching for his standing in each instance. One[pg 63][pg 64][pg 65]man became suspicious, and early the next morning communicated with La Crosse and received immediate advice that the name was unknown. Then the hunt for Landis began, but he had departed for parts unknown, was later captured and received twenty years in the Stillwater penitentiary. Here his stay was of short duration, as he soon made his escape.On a previous page we stated that there had been but one escape from the Minnesota State Prison since Mr. Wolfer has been warden. Recently, however, a“trusty,”who had been acting as coachman, took advantage of the freedom allowed him and disappeared. This is not considered by the officials as an escape in the true sense of the word. Below we give the“trusty's”picture with the Bertillon Measurements.Allus PetwrayHeight, 1 m 75 1Height 5 ft. 9 in.Outs A 1 m 82Trunk 90Head Length 19.8Head Width 15.3Cheek Width 13.6R. Ear 7.2L. Foot 27.4d1L. Mid F. 11.6L. Lit. F. 9.2L Forearm 48.1[pg 66]Name, Allus Petwray, No. 2654. Nationality, African; age, 30; color, Negro; build, muscular; complexion, M. brown; hair, black; eyes, Mar. deep; weight. 161.Sentenced March 1, 1909; term, 2½ years. From Polk county, for the crime of grand larceny, second degree.Marks and scars: 1 cut:- hor. rec. 1.5 c at 3 d ph. R. III-Cut:- rec. hor. 4c at on & sr. of cen. sr. brw. III-Cic;- rec. ob. 1c at slt. over & sr. out. pt. sr. eye. III-cut:-rec. ver. sit. ob. 3c at 2.5 to front dx. tragus. III-Cut:-rec. ob. 8c at 3 over dx. ear.Occupation, coachman.This photograph and record of Bertillon Measurements has been sent broadcast to all the police departments in the United States and Canada, and his recapture will probably be“only a question of time.”BREAKING INTO PRISONWe have just related some cases where men have broken out of prison, and it is in order to state the facts regarding a robbery that took place at the prison. A man actually broke into prison for the purpose of stealing. He had procured a rope ladder and scaled one of the rear walls, made his way to the Western Shoe company's factory and selected the finest case of shoes he could find. He then retraced his way to the wall, tied a rope to the case of shoes, climbed up and went away as though the act of stealing shoes from a penitentiary was an every-day accomplishment for him. He was also captured, and it was then discovered that he had been a former inmate, accounting for his familiarity with the grounds. The place is constantly patroled by two night watchmen, and it is still a mystery how he managed to evade them. This act might have been performed out of a spirit of reckless bravado to demonstrate to the other inmates that he was fully capable. His little stunt, however, cost him another residence of three and one-half years at the prison.[pg 67]THE PAROLE SYSTEMThe state of Minnesota was one of the first to introduce the grading and parole systems in its prison. Speaking of this feature, Warden Wolfer says:“We have paroled 934 prisoners since the parole law went into effect in 1894. We now have 72 prisoners on parole, three of whom are females. Of those paroled 716 were committed on a definite sentence, and 218 on Reformatory Plan.”“The grading and parole law continues to work satisfactorily and gives much promise and encouragement for the future. We are often disappointed by the failure of promising parole men to make good, but on the other hand, we are as often encouraged by the less promising who have made good beyond our most sanguine expectations. All of which demonstrates the limitation of human judgment and the difficulty of‘reading the human heart aright.’Most of those who break parole are carried over the line by some weakness, usually intemperance, a weakness that they do not seem able to control.”“We are glad to be able to say that our expedience with the grading and parole system gives us growing encouragement and hope for the future, because we believe we have hopeful and satisfying evidence that few men break their parole because of the desire to do wrong. As a rule, the parole breaker heartily regrets his misstep, and frequently will make good if given another chance.”“The parole embodies those ethical principles of conduct that make for normal life and good character. Rationally and constructively applied, it builds up and encourages manhood and at the same time it discourages a disposition to yield to weakening impulses that lead to wrongdoing. Every possible effort should be made to apprehend and return the fugitive parole breaker, for if allowed to remain at large he is almost sure to become a confirmed criminal. Therefore, a more thorough supervision of paroled prisoners is necessary, and a more accurate system for the apprehension and identification of parole breakers seems imperative in every state, and throughout the country, wherever the parole system is in vogue.”[pg 68]“Of the 934 prisoners paroled 59 per cent were finally discharged by reason of expiration of definite sentence; 13 2-3 per cent, who were committed on the Reformatory Plan, were discharged by the board after having given satisfactory evidence of a desire and purpose to live honestly and become good citizens; 19 2-3 per cent of the whole number paroled violated their paroles; 17 1-3 per cent of the whole number were returned to prison to serve unexpired sentences, leaving 2 1-3 per cent parole violators now at large.”This system has had a marked tendency to improve the discipline of the prison, for it impels inmates to bend every effort to merit this consideration at the hands of the state authorities. The state law governing the parole of prisoners from the penitentiary is as follows:THE PAROLE LAWParole of Prisoners,—The State Board of Control may parole any prisoner: Provided,1.No convict shall be paroled who has been previously convicted of a felony other than the one for which he is serving sentence, either in this state or elsewhere.2.No convict serving a time sentence shall be paroled until he shall have served at least one-half of his full term, not reckoning good time.3.No convict serving a life sentence shall be paroled until he has served thirty-five years, less the diminution which would have been allowed for good conduct had his sentence been for thirty-five years, and then only by unanimous consent, in writing, of the members of the Board of Pardons.4.Such convicts while on parole shall remain in the legal custody and under control of the Board of Control, subject at any time to be returned to the prison or reformatory, and the written order of said board, certified by the Warden, shall be a sufficient warrant to any officer to retake and return to actual custody any such convict. Geographical limits wholly within[pg 69][pg 70][pg 71]the state may be fixed in each case, and the same enlarged or reduced according to the conduct of the prisoners.5.In considering applications for parole said board shall not entertain any petition, receive any written communication, or bear any argument from any attorney or other person not connected with said prison, in favor of the parole of any prisoner, but it may institute inquiries by correspondence or otherwise as to the previous history or character of such prisoner.At the present time nearly all the states have inaugurated the parole and grading system similar to the law in operation in this state, and some are considering the advisability of introducing the system. This law is one of the best measures of the so-called modern penology and one in which the leading authorities on such matters feel the most pride.Dynamited Safe, Stephen, Minn.This cut shows the condition of the safe and office of the State Bank of Stephen, Minn., after being wrecked by dynamite. This was done by three men. One escaped, one gave state's evidence and the other is now serving a term at the Minnesota State Prison.Warden's OfficeWarden's OfficeDIMINUTION OF SENTENCEThe following law will give the reader an idea of the“good time”the prisoner earns during imprisonment, and is another powerful incentive toward good conduct. Few prisoners permit themselves to commit violations of rules, the gravity of which subjects them to punishment. A man may be deprived of good time for refusing to obey an order, fighting, insolence to guard, foreman or fellow-prisoner.Diminution of Sentence.—Every convict sentenced for a definite term other than life, whether confined in the state prison or on parole therefrom, may diminish such term as follows:1.For each month, commencing on the day of his arrival, during which he has not violated any prison rule or discipline, and has labored with diligence and fidelity, five days.2.After one year of such conduct, seven days for each month.3.After two years of such conduct, nine days for each month.4.After three years, ten days for each month for the entire time thereafter.Said board, in view of the aggravated nature and frequency of offenses, may take away any or all of the good time previously gained, and, in consideration of mitigating circumstances or ignorance on the part of the convict, may afterwards restore him, in whole or in part, to the standing he possessed before such good time was taken away. Whenever a convict shall pass the entire period of his imprisonment without an unexcused violation of the rules or discipline, upon his discharge he shall be restored to his rights and privileges forfeited by conviction, and receive from the governor a certificate, under the seal of the state, as evidence of such restorationDISCHARGE ALLOWANCEIn some states there is little or no provision for aiding the discharged prisoner, and in some states when parole is granted his prospective employer must first send railroad fare before he is released. In many states the discharged man is given five dollars in money, while in others he is permitted to earn money during his imprisonment. The following is the law that governs in the state of Minnesota:Upon discharge the Warden, at the expense of the state, shall furnish each convict released with one good, serviceable suit of clothing and underclothing, and, when released between October 1 and March 31 following, with a good, serviceable overcoat; and he shall pay to each convict, when released, $25 in money drawn from the current expense fund.Decoration: Keys, Ball and Chain[pg 73]THE CELLHOUSE BUILDINGWithin the cellhouse building there are 664 cells, ranged tier upon tier, there being six in all. The building is constructed entirely of iron and stone, and the walls are nearly three feet thick. It is safe to say that in this solidly built building more human sorrow is represented than anywhere else in the state. If an authentic record could be made of the tragedies that take place behind these grim, unsympathetic stone walls it would fill volumes. However, it would require the enviable intellect of a Victor Hugo or Charles Read to vividly picture the utter despair and blasted hopes of the many thousands who have been imprisoned within these cheerless walls since the construction of the building. It is absolutely fireproof, but quite antiquated, the sanitation and ventilation being extremely poor. About fifteen prisoners are employed in the cell house, sweeping cells, galleries, passing out water, holystoning the flags in the corridor and keeping the place as clean as possible. Two men are constantly employed in whitewashing the cells and the interior of the cell house, and another's time is wholly occupied in exterminating bedbugs, which are quite plentiful and possess large appetites.The captain makes a tour of the galleries each morning and inspects each cell to see that everything is in order. If a cell floor or other articles are in a slovenly condition the inmate is reported to the deputy warden, whose duty it is to administer a reprimand for negligence. While making this four of inspection he delivers all incoming letters addressed to prisoners. All incoming and outgoing mail is carefully scrutinized before delivery. On Sunday morning material for writing letters[pg 74]is issued to all prisoners who are permitted to write, and the distribution of tobacco is also made at this time. The upper tiers of the galleries used to be the rendezvous for inmates possessing suicidal inclinations, not a few of whom, having lost all courage and lacking the determination to live, chose this method of ending their woes. We use the words“used to be”advisedly, for they have ceased to be an attraction to the death-desiring since the failure to accomplish the result occurred to an inmate who a short time ago took the plunge from the upper tier. In an hour or so he was at work as if nothing unusual had happened. Heretofore a plunge from the upper tiers to the stone flags always meant a call for the undertaker.Cellhouse, Looking EastCellhouse, Looking EastPrison BandPrison BandSpinning Room In Twine Factory looking West.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking West.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking East.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking East.[pg 75][pg 76][pg 77]THE CHAUTAUQUA CIRCLEThere is in existence in the Minnesota State Prison a Chautauqua circle, being a branch of the main organization, conducted entirely by the inmates and the presiding officers elected from the members thereof.Election of officers occurs once a year. Meetings are held fortnightly in the prison chapel, at which time several papers are read and discussed by the members. At the conclusion of the meeting a critic chosen from the circle reviews the program, points out various errors in composition papers or commends them as the case may be.The membership of this unique organization numbers about thirty, and as old members withdraw new ones are selected from the better educated prisoners. Meetings are always conducted in an orderly manner, not a snigle serious violation of the rules having occurred since the organization—about twenty years ago. Discussions at times becomes exceedingly spirited, especially if a paper is read that attacks the pet hobbies of the several members.As an educational feature of the institution the Chautauqua circle is accomplishing excellent work and deserves the sincere patronage and commendation of the prison authorities.BAND AND ORCHESTRALike the majority of the better-class prisons, Minnesota's penitentiary has the honor of having within its walls a well-equipped band and orchestra. They are in charge of an experienced citizen-music teacher, and have made[pg 78]remarkable progress since organization. About nineteen members compose the band, mostly men who have a long time to serve.The orchestra provides music for the services in the prison chapel, and when entertainments are given provides the musical numbers on the program. Of late years it has attained a degree of efficiency that has been commended very highly by prominent visitors to the institution.The band gives a concert each morning during the summer months and also during drill exercises, which take place in the yard every Sunday immediately after chapel service. Concerts are also given in the park on holidays, when the men are enjoying outdoor freedom, which the inmates appreciate very much, helping wonderfully to break the dull, routine monotony of prison life. The band and orchestra cost the state very little, its instruments are paid for out of the fees received from visitors, who pay a twenty-five cent admission to see the institution. This amount is donated for the benefit of the library fund.PRISON NIGHT SCHOOLThe prison that now neglects to provide suitable educational facilities for the instruction of its inmates is considered behind the times. A great many inmates of penitentiaries are illiterate, and the prison night schools afford an excellent opportunity to acquire the fundamentals of a good education. This department is under the supervision of the superintendent of public schools of Stillwater, who is assisted by a corps of teachers chosen from among the inmates. The course of study[pg 79]corresponds to the course pursued in the state primary and grammar schools. There are fourteen classes, ranging from a, b, c class to one in advanced bookkeeping. Three sessions are held weekly, and the school is popular among the prisoners. Those serving reformatory sentences are compelled to attend, but the voluntary attendance is always in excess of the compulsory. During the season of 1907-08 the average attendance was 164, and of this number 48 were compelled to attend, while the balance, 116, attended voluntarily.The prison night school is in operation eight months during the year, and is well partronized, many inmates receiving their first instructions in reading and writing during their period of service. To the ambitious man there is plenty of opportunity for self-improvement, so it can readily be seen that no one need wholly waste the time that he is compelled to serve for infraction of state laws. When school is not in session inmates are granted permission to have all the school books they require in pursuance of studies.THE SHOE INDUSTRY.This factory is conducted by the Western Shoe Co., and annually employs about 225 prisoners. There is an excellent opportunity here for the inmate to learn a trade at which he can make a good living upon his release. Few citizens are employed at this work, but a competent citizen-foreman is in charge of each shop. As far as possible prisoners are taught the business of making shoes, and many of them become very proficient at this work.The company pays a stated price for each piece of[pg 80]work turned out, and the per diem earnings of the prisoners is larger than in any other prison in the country. The volume of business of these two industries amounts annually to more than $2,000,000. Of this total, returns from the twine factory, operated on state account, amount to $1,300,000, while the shoe company, operated on the piece-price system, does a business in excess of $800,000.THE REPAIR SHOP.All the repair work of the institution is performed in this department, and in this shop are located the tinner, plumbers, carpenters, painters, machinists, etc., all under the supervision of a first-class foreman. The tinner makes all the tinware used in the various departments of the prison and attends to its repairing. As the entire institution is heated by steam, the plumbers are kept constantly employed during the winter repairing radiators and overhauling wornout steam pipes. As repairs and improvements are constantly being made and as the prison buildings are quite old, considerable carpenter work is also necessitated each year.Perhaps the busiest men in this shop are the machinists, whose business it is to see that all machinery, shafting, etc., are kept in repair, thus reducing breakdowns to the minimum. This shop is run in an economical manner and annually saves the state thousands of dollars.

PRISON HUMOR.Several years ago there was an inmate in the Stillwater penitentiary who unconsciously perpetrated one of the best jokes that had been heard at the institution for some time. He was a German and a hard-working carpenter by trade. He was honest to a fault and led a model life while on the outside. The crime for which he was sentenced was assault on a fellow workman, and for this offense he received a two-year sentence at the Stillwater penitentiary. He was immediately put to work for the Minnesota Thresher Co., being assigned work in one of the carpenter shops. One day he forgot to take his plug of chewing tobacco with him to the shop, having left it laying on the small table in his cell. That evening when he came in from work he found the plug of tobacco missing. He at once began calling for one of the night guards, and on that gentleman's arrival the prisoner remarked:“Say, Mr. Guard, dere must pe thieves in dis here blace. Mine tobacco's she was gone, und I harms noboddies. I dink ve petter send for dere bolicemans und catch sum uf dem rascals.”The foregoing story is absolutely authentic, and was told again and again by the prisoners who appreciate a good joke as keenly as their free brothers. It also brings out rather forcibly the fact that, notwithstanding the man was in prison, he was still honest.

Several years ago there was an inmate in the Stillwater penitentiary who unconsciously perpetrated one of the best jokes that had been heard at the institution for some time. He was a German and a hard-working carpenter by trade. He was honest to a fault and led a model life while on the outside. The crime for which he was sentenced was assault on a fellow workman, and for this offense he received a two-year sentence at the Stillwater penitentiary. He was immediately put to work for the Minnesota Thresher Co., being assigned work in one of the carpenter shops. One day he forgot to take his plug of chewing tobacco with him to the shop, having left it laying on the small table in his cell. That evening when he came in from work he found the plug of tobacco missing. He at once began calling for one of the night guards, and on that gentleman's arrival the prisoner remarked:

“Say, Mr. Guard, dere must pe thieves in dis here blace. Mine tobacco's she was gone, und I harms noboddies. I dink ve petter send for dere bolicemans und catch sum uf dem rascals.”

The foregoing story is absolutely authentic, and was told again and again by the prisoners who appreciate a good joke as keenly as their free brothers. It also brings out rather forcibly the fact that, notwithstanding the man was in prison, he was still honest.

THE VERSATILE PRISONER.It is quite generally known that the prisoners at the Minnesota state prison are prohibited from talking, and what conversation there is, generally takes place on a holiday or is permitted in cases where their work makes talking necessary. One day there was committed to the prison a man who was proficient in a dozen different languages. The deputy warden was examining the man as to his birth, nationality, religion, etc., and when he asked the prisoner his nationality he replied that he could talk in several different languages.“Hump,”grunted the deputy,“we talk English here and d— little of that.”

It is quite generally known that the prisoners at the Minnesota state prison are prohibited from talking, and what conversation there is, generally takes place on a holiday or is permitted in cases where their work makes talking necessary. One day there was committed to the prison a man who was proficient in a dozen different languages. The deputy warden was examining the man as to his birth, nationality, religion, etc., and when he asked the prisoner his nationality he replied that he could talk in several different languages.“Hump,”grunted the deputy,“we talk English here and d— little of that.”

CAPT.“JACK”CRAWFORD'S JOKE ON THE GUARDS.Several years ago the poet-scout, Capt.“Jack”Crawford, delivered a lecture in the prison chapel to the inmates. In passing it is well to state that this well-known lecturer makes it a point to visit the various penal and charitable institutions throughout the country free of charge, hence his friendly call at the Stillwater prison.During the course of Mr. Crawford's remarks he paused in his discourse and said:“Men, I heartily sympathize with you for being in the unfortunate condition you are, but (and the speaker pointed his hands at each side of the room where the guards were stationed) if these high-toned gentlemen in blue uniforms were dressed in the same clothes you are and placed among you, why I couldn't tell the difference between you!”This unintentional joke at the guards caused a great deal of applause, but when Mr. Crawford's remarks are[pg 58]examined by cold, logic, it will be found that he simply told the truth and that the dissimilarity is a question of clothes and nothing else.

Several years ago the poet-scout, Capt.“Jack”Crawford, delivered a lecture in the prison chapel to the inmates. In passing it is well to state that this well-known lecturer makes it a point to visit the various penal and charitable institutions throughout the country free of charge, hence his friendly call at the Stillwater prison.

During the course of Mr. Crawford's remarks he paused in his discourse and said:“Men, I heartily sympathize with you for being in the unfortunate condition you are, but (and the speaker pointed his hands at each side of the room where the guards were stationed) if these high-toned gentlemen in blue uniforms were dressed in the same clothes you are and placed among you, why I couldn't tell the difference between you!”

This unintentional joke at the guards caused a great deal of applause, but when Mr. Crawford's remarks are[pg 58]examined by cold, logic, it will be found that he simply told the truth and that the dissimilarity is a question of clothes and nothing else.

FEEDING THE DONKEYS.When the prison band was first organized the inmate musicians made a noise that was something indescribable. It sounded like a sawmill blowing up, or a handsaw striking a 60-penny spike. One day one of the highly-strung nervous chaps went up to the deputy warden and asked permission to buy a bale of hay.“What do you want hay for?”asked the deputy.“Why,”replied the prisoner,“I would like to present a bale of hay to those jackasses in the park who are making all that confounded noise.”

When the prison band was first organized the inmate musicians made a noise that was something indescribable. It sounded like a sawmill blowing up, or a handsaw striking a 60-penny spike. One day one of the highly-strung nervous chaps went up to the deputy warden and asked permission to buy a bale of hay.

“What do you want hay for?”asked the deputy.

“Why,”replied the prisoner,“I would like to present a bale of hay to those jackasses in the park who are making all that confounded noise.”

TRICKS OF PRISONERS WHO SHAM ILLNESSA prison is not an admirable place for those disinclined to work. A man occasionally succeeds in hoodwinking the authorities for a time, but this rarely occurs. Whenever there is a reasonable doubt the prisoner is given the benefit of it. A case in particular is that of one Mr. B., who complained that the entire lower part of his body was paralyzed and that he was unable to walk. He was given a pair of crutches and put in the hospital ward, where he lived well, his wants supplied by the attendants and where he had absolutely nothing to do. The doctors suspected that he was faking and secretly applied tests to verify their belief. Evidently the man was on his guard and fully acquainted with the various modes of procedure in such cases, for he stood the tests unflinchingly.[pg 59]Finally Warden Wolfer took his case under personal charge and evolved a plan that the clever prisoner had not figured on as one of the possibilities of detection. The strategy was this: A newly-appointed guard was dressed in a third-grade suit of convict clothes on the day when the prisoners in the crank department were given their weekly shave. Mr. B. was sitting on the bench waiting to be shaved. The deputy warden stepped into the room with the alleged third-grade prisoner and gruffly ordered him to be seated, then turned to the barber and told him to shave the third-grade man next, as he was in a hurry. Not an inkling of suspicion flashed across Mr. B.'s brain. In the door leading into this ward a small peep-hole is arranged, enabling the guard to look into the room without entering. The warden was stationed behind this door to observe the results of this scheme. As the third-grade“prisoner”sat down to be shaved he suddenly seized one of the barber's razors, and, with a whoop, jumped out of the chair and made for the“helpless”Mr. B., who immediately cast aside his crutches and rushed down the corridor to escape from the supposed demented“prisoner.”The fact that his legs were paralyzed and that he was acting a part was entirely forgotten.At this stage of the proceedings the warden entered the room and informed the crestfallen Mr. B. that the comedy was over. At first he was inclined to continue the paralytic roll, but when informed that he had the option of going to work or taking an indefinite stay on a bread-and-water diet he wisely chose the first alternative, and for the remainder of his term gave no more trouble.Another case of shirking is that of Mr. M., who is a life prisoner and who has spent over a quarter of a[pg 60]century behind the bars of Minnesota's famous penal institution. He insisted that something was wrong with his limbs and that he could not walk; that he needed the assistance of crutches, but one night one of the nurses observed him walking back and forth in his cell, evidently taking a needed constitutional. He was sent to work in a few days and is today walking as successfully as ever. He employed this deception for many years.

A prison is not an admirable place for those disinclined to work. A man occasionally succeeds in hoodwinking the authorities for a time, but this rarely occurs. Whenever there is a reasonable doubt the prisoner is given the benefit of it. A case in particular is that of one Mr. B., who complained that the entire lower part of his body was paralyzed and that he was unable to walk. He was given a pair of crutches and put in the hospital ward, where he lived well, his wants supplied by the attendants and where he had absolutely nothing to do. The doctors suspected that he was faking and secretly applied tests to verify their belief. Evidently the man was on his guard and fully acquainted with the various modes of procedure in such cases, for he stood the tests unflinchingly.

Finally Warden Wolfer took his case under personal charge and evolved a plan that the clever prisoner had not figured on as one of the possibilities of detection. The strategy was this: A newly-appointed guard was dressed in a third-grade suit of convict clothes on the day when the prisoners in the crank department were given their weekly shave. Mr. B. was sitting on the bench waiting to be shaved. The deputy warden stepped into the room with the alleged third-grade prisoner and gruffly ordered him to be seated, then turned to the barber and told him to shave the third-grade man next, as he was in a hurry. Not an inkling of suspicion flashed across Mr. B.'s brain. In the door leading into this ward a small peep-hole is arranged, enabling the guard to look into the room without entering. The warden was stationed behind this door to observe the results of this scheme. As the third-grade“prisoner”sat down to be shaved he suddenly seized one of the barber's razors, and, with a whoop, jumped out of the chair and made for the“helpless”Mr. B., who immediately cast aside his crutches and rushed down the corridor to escape from the supposed demented“prisoner.”The fact that his legs were paralyzed and that he was acting a part was entirely forgotten.

At this stage of the proceedings the warden entered the room and informed the crestfallen Mr. B. that the comedy was over. At first he was inclined to continue the paralytic roll, but when informed that he had the option of going to work or taking an indefinite stay on a bread-and-water diet he wisely chose the first alternative, and for the remainder of his term gave no more trouble.

Another case of shirking is that of Mr. M., who is a life prisoner and who has spent over a quarter of a[pg 60]century behind the bars of Minnesota's famous penal institution. He insisted that something was wrong with his limbs and that he could not walk; that he needed the assistance of crutches, but one night one of the nurses observed him walking back and forth in his cell, evidently taking a needed constitutional. He was sent to work in a few days and is today walking as successfully as ever. He employed this deception for many years.

A“HORSE”ON THE PRISON PHYSICIAN.Some time ago there arrived at the prison a man who appeared to be, as far as visible appearances were concerned, a chronic sufferer from epileptic fits. On the day he entered prison he had two of these fits, and almost every day thereafter they occurred with surprising frequency. The assistant physician was always called on these occasions, but could do nothing for the sufferer, he being thoroughly convinced that the fits were the real article. The prisoner was given an easy position in the cellhouse, as it was considered too dangerous to have him working in the shops alongside of the machines, belting, etc.Finally, however, this easy job began to pall on the epileptic prisoner's nerves; and he asked the deputy warden to be transferred to the shops.“I can't do it,”said the deputy,“as it would be against the physician's orders to change your work.”“Well, if that is the case I will have to cut out the fit business,”replied the prisoner.“What do you mean?”asked the deputy warden.“These fits are all fakes,”smilingly retorted the prisoner,“and I can cut them out any time.”[pg 61]“The only way you can convince me that these epileptic fits are not genuine is to stop having them. If you do this for thirty days, I will give you any job you want.”The prisoner got the job, greatly to the mystification of the physicians and the deputy warden.

Some time ago there arrived at the prison a man who appeared to be, as far as visible appearances were concerned, a chronic sufferer from epileptic fits. On the day he entered prison he had two of these fits, and almost every day thereafter they occurred with surprising frequency. The assistant physician was always called on these occasions, but could do nothing for the sufferer, he being thoroughly convinced that the fits were the real article. The prisoner was given an easy position in the cellhouse, as it was considered too dangerous to have him working in the shops alongside of the machines, belting, etc.

Finally, however, this easy job began to pall on the epileptic prisoner's nerves; and he asked the deputy warden to be transferred to the shops.“I can't do it,”said the deputy,“as it would be against the physician's orders to change your work.”

“Well, if that is the case I will have to cut out the fit business,”replied the prisoner.

“What do you mean?”asked the deputy warden.

“These fits are all fakes,”smilingly retorted the prisoner,“and I can cut them out any time.”

“The only way you can convince me that these epileptic fits are not genuine is to stop having them. If you do this for thirty days, I will give you any job you want.”

The prisoner got the job, greatly to the mystification of the physicians and the deputy warden.

ESCAPES FROM PRISONThere has been but one successful escape during the eighteen years that Warden Wolfer has had charge of the prison. A capture was, however, effected a few days later. The escape was neatly planned, and the“loophole”through which he crawled could only have been detected by one who was constantly looking for a chance to“fly the coop,”using a prisoner's expression. Opportunity came to him in the following manner: It was the custom of the captain of the cellhouse to unlock the doors immediately after the men had left their cells. In the fall of the year it is still quite dark when the prisoners march into the dining room to breakfast. On the morning that Mr. B. made his escape he simply remained in his cell, and as soon as the captain of the cell house unlocked the side doors and went back to his desk came out of his cell, cautiously made his way out of one of the side doors and made a beeline for the wall near the railroad gate, negotiating the same near this point. The wall guard imagined that he saw some one go over the top of the wall and fired several shots in that direction, but it was still very dark and he was uncertain just what it was. The prisoner got away without a scratch, but, as previously stated, was recaptured a few days later. Shot by a farmer whom he tried to rob and received a bad bullet wound in one of his ankles. The farmer, however, was not aware of his identity,—had ordered[pg 62]him off his premises, but the prisoner acted in a threatening manner and was thereupon shot.About seventeen years ago another attempt to escape was made by a desperate young fellow and two companions. They evaded the guard, slipped out of the shop near the wagon gate and then waited where they were not observed; then a dash for freedom through this big double gate as it swung open to permit a team to pass out. All three were apprehended shortly afterwards under the warehouse building of the Minnesota Thresher Co., where they had sought temporary refuge. This was just opposite the prison. It is very improbable that any more attempts will be made through this gate, a guard now being stationed on the wall above the gate and one across the street. Formerly there was but one guard in charge of the gate, which had a tendency to invite attack at this quarter.Prison BandPrison BandPrison Band In ParkPrison Band In ParkPrison Train Backing Into Prison Yard to be Loaded with TwinePrison Train Backing Into Prison Yard to be Loaded with TwineTrain Leaving Prison Yard After LoadingTrain Leaving Prison Yard After LoadingAbout twenty-five years ago a prisoner, Frank Landis by name, made as successful an escape as was ever made from any institution. He sawed the bars on one of the cell house windows, squeezed himself through and has never been heard from since. Landis had arrived in St. Paul one day and victimized business men out of nearly twenty-five thousand dollars. He represented himself to be the son of a rich merchant of La Crosse, Wis., and, to allay suspicion, invited one of the merchants to telegraph at his expense as to his credentials. He evidently had a confederate at the other end of the line, as word came back that he was O. K. After getting this merchant to cash his checks he next induced him to introduce the generous buyer to other merchants, the aforesaid merchant vouching for his standing in each instance. One[pg 63][pg 64][pg 65]man became suspicious, and early the next morning communicated with La Crosse and received immediate advice that the name was unknown. Then the hunt for Landis began, but he had departed for parts unknown, was later captured and received twenty years in the Stillwater penitentiary. Here his stay was of short duration, as he soon made his escape.On a previous page we stated that there had been but one escape from the Minnesota State Prison since Mr. Wolfer has been warden. Recently, however, a“trusty,”who had been acting as coachman, took advantage of the freedom allowed him and disappeared. This is not considered by the officials as an escape in the true sense of the word. Below we give the“trusty's”picture with the Bertillon Measurements.Allus PetwrayHeight, 1 m 75 1Height 5 ft. 9 in.Outs A 1 m 82Trunk 90Head Length 19.8Head Width 15.3Cheek Width 13.6R. Ear 7.2L. Foot 27.4d1L. Mid F. 11.6L. Lit. F. 9.2L Forearm 48.1[pg 66]Name, Allus Petwray, No. 2654. Nationality, African; age, 30; color, Negro; build, muscular; complexion, M. brown; hair, black; eyes, Mar. deep; weight. 161.Sentenced March 1, 1909; term, 2½ years. From Polk county, for the crime of grand larceny, second degree.Marks and scars: 1 cut:- hor. rec. 1.5 c at 3 d ph. R. III-Cut:- rec. hor. 4c at on & sr. of cen. sr. brw. III-Cic;- rec. ob. 1c at slt. over & sr. out. pt. sr. eye. III-cut:-rec. ver. sit. ob. 3c at 2.5 to front dx. tragus. III-Cut:-rec. ob. 8c at 3 over dx. ear.Occupation, coachman.This photograph and record of Bertillon Measurements has been sent broadcast to all the police departments in the United States and Canada, and his recapture will probably be“only a question of time.”

There has been but one successful escape during the eighteen years that Warden Wolfer has had charge of the prison. A capture was, however, effected a few days later. The escape was neatly planned, and the“loophole”through which he crawled could only have been detected by one who was constantly looking for a chance to“fly the coop,”using a prisoner's expression. Opportunity came to him in the following manner: It was the custom of the captain of the cellhouse to unlock the doors immediately after the men had left their cells. In the fall of the year it is still quite dark when the prisoners march into the dining room to breakfast. On the morning that Mr. B. made his escape he simply remained in his cell, and as soon as the captain of the cell house unlocked the side doors and went back to his desk came out of his cell, cautiously made his way out of one of the side doors and made a beeline for the wall near the railroad gate, negotiating the same near this point. The wall guard imagined that he saw some one go over the top of the wall and fired several shots in that direction, but it was still very dark and he was uncertain just what it was. The prisoner got away without a scratch, but, as previously stated, was recaptured a few days later. Shot by a farmer whom he tried to rob and received a bad bullet wound in one of his ankles. The farmer, however, was not aware of his identity,—had ordered[pg 62]him off his premises, but the prisoner acted in a threatening manner and was thereupon shot.

About seventeen years ago another attempt to escape was made by a desperate young fellow and two companions. They evaded the guard, slipped out of the shop near the wagon gate and then waited where they were not observed; then a dash for freedom through this big double gate as it swung open to permit a team to pass out. All three were apprehended shortly afterwards under the warehouse building of the Minnesota Thresher Co., where they had sought temporary refuge. This was just opposite the prison. It is very improbable that any more attempts will be made through this gate, a guard now being stationed on the wall above the gate and one across the street. Formerly there was but one guard in charge of the gate, which had a tendency to invite attack at this quarter.

Prison BandPrison Band

Prison Band

Prison Band In ParkPrison Band In Park

Prison Band In Park

Prison Train Backing Into Prison Yard to be Loaded with TwinePrison Train Backing Into Prison Yard to be Loaded with Twine

Prison Train Backing Into Prison Yard to be Loaded with Twine

Train Leaving Prison Yard After LoadingTrain Leaving Prison Yard After Loading

Train Leaving Prison Yard After Loading

About twenty-five years ago a prisoner, Frank Landis by name, made as successful an escape as was ever made from any institution. He sawed the bars on one of the cell house windows, squeezed himself through and has never been heard from since. Landis had arrived in St. Paul one day and victimized business men out of nearly twenty-five thousand dollars. He represented himself to be the son of a rich merchant of La Crosse, Wis., and, to allay suspicion, invited one of the merchants to telegraph at his expense as to his credentials. He evidently had a confederate at the other end of the line, as word came back that he was O. K. After getting this merchant to cash his checks he next induced him to introduce the generous buyer to other merchants, the aforesaid merchant vouching for his standing in each instance. One[pg 63][pg 64][pg 65]man became suspicious, and early the next morning communicated with La Crosse and received immediate advice that the name was unknown. Then the hunt for Landis began, but he had departed for parts unknown, was later captured and received twenty years in the Stillwater penitentiary. Here his stay was of short duration, as he soon made his escape.

On a previous page we stated that there had been but one escape from the Minnesota State Prison since Mr. Wolfer has been warden. Recently, however, a“trusty,”who had been acting as coachman, took advantage of the freedom allowed him and disappeared. This is not considered by the officials as an escape in the true sense of the word. Below we give the“trusty's”picture with the Bertillon Measurements.

Allus Petwray

Name, Allus Petwray, No. 2654. Nationality, African; age, 30; color, Negro; build, muscular; complexion, M. brown; hair, black; eyes, Mar. deep; weight. 161.

Sentenced March 1, 1909; term, 2½ years. From Polk county, for the crime of grand larceny, second degree.

Marks and scars: 1 cut:- hor. rec. 1.5 c at 3 d ph. R. III-Cut:- rec. hor. 4c at on & sr. of cen. sr. brw. III-Cic;- rec. ob. 1c at slt. over & sr. out. pt. sr. eye. III-cut:-rec. ver. sit. ob. 3c at 2.5 to front dx. tragus. III-Cut:-rec. ob. 8c at 3 over dx. ear.

Occupation, coachman.

This photograph and record of Bertillon Measurements has been sent broadcast to all the police departments in the United States and Canada, and his recapture will probably be“only a question of time.”

BREAKING INTO PRISONWe have just related some cases where men have broken out of prison, and it is in order to state the facts regarding a robbery that took place at the prison. A man actually broke into prison for the purpose of stealing. He had procured a rope ladder and scaled one of the rear walls, made his way to the Western Shoe company's factory and selected the finest case of shoes he could find. He then retraced his way to the wall, tied a rope to the case of shoes, climbed up and went away as though the act of stealing shoes from a penitentiary was an every-day accomplishment for him. He was also captured, and it was then discovered that he had been a former inmate, accounting for his familiarity with the grounds. The place is constantly patroled by two night watchmen, and it is still a mystery how he managed to evade them. This act might have been performed out of a spirit of reckless bravado to demonstrate to the other inmates that he was fully capable. His little stunt, however, cost him another residence of three and one-half years at the prison.

We have just related some cases where men have broken out of prison, and it is in order to state the facts regarding a robbery that took place at the prison. A man actually broke into prison for the purpose of stealing. He had procured a rope ladder and scaled one of the rear walls, made his way to the Western Shoe company's factory and selected the finest case of shoes he could find. He then retraced his way to the wall, tied a rope to the case of shoes, climbed up and went away as though the act of stealing shoes from a penitentiary was an every-day accomplishment for him. He was also captured, and it was then discovered that he had been a former inmate, accounting for his familiarity with the grounds. The place is constantly patroled by two night watchmen, and it is still a mystery how he managed to evade them. This act might have been performed out of a spirit of reckless bravado to demonstrate to the other inmates that he was fully capable. His little stunt, however, cost him another residence of three and one-half years at the prison.

THE PAROLE SYSTEMThe state of Minnesota was one of the first to introduce the grading and parole systems in its prison. Speaking of this feature, Warden Wolfer says:“We have paroled 934 prisoners since the parole law went into effect in 1894. We now have 72 prisoners on parole, three of whom are females. Of those paroled 716 were committed on a definite sentence, and 218 on Reformatory Plan.”“The grading and parole law continues to work satisfactorily and gives much promise and encouragement for the future. We are often disappointed by the failure of promising parole men to make good, but on the other hand, we are as often encouraged by the less promising who have made good beyond our most sanguine expectations. All of which demonstrates the limitation of human judgment and the difficulty of‘reading the human heart aright.’Most of those who break parole are carried over the line by some weakness, usually intemperance, a weakness that they do not seem able to control.”“We are glad to be able to say that our expedience with the grading and parole system gives us growing encouragement and hope for the future, because we believe we have hopeful and satisfying evidence that few men break their parole because of the desire to do wrong. As a rule, the parole breaker heartily regrets his misstep, and frequently will make good if given another chance.”“The parole embodies those ethical principles of conduct that make for normal life and good character. Rationally and constructively applied, it builds up and encourages manhood and at the same time it discourages a disposition to yield to weakening impulses that lead to wrongdoing. Every possible effort should be made to apprehend and return the fugitive parole breaker, for if allowed to remain at large he is almost sure to become a confirmed criminal. Therefore, a more thorough supervision of paroled prisoners is necessary, and a more accurate system for the apprehension and identification of parole breakers seems imperative in every state, and throughout the country, wherever the parole system is in vogue.”[pg 68]“Of the 934 prisoners paroled 59 per cent were finally discharged by reason of expiration of definite sentence; 13 2-3 per cent, who were committed on the Reformatory Plan, were discharged by the board after having given satisfactory evidence of a desire and purpose to live honestly and become good citizens; 19 2-3 per cent of the whole number paroled violated their paroles; 17 1-3 per cent of the whole number were returned to prison to serve unexpired sentences, leaving 2 1-3 per cent parole violators now at large.”This system has had a marked tendency to improve the discipline of the prison, for it impels inmates to bend every effort to merit this consideration at the hands of the state authorities. The state law governing the parole of prisoners from the penitentiary is as follows:

The state of Minnesota was one of the first to introduce the grading and parole systems in its prison. Speaking of this feature, Warden Wolfer says:

“We have paroled 934 prisoners since the parole law went into effect in 1894. We now have 72 prisoners on parole, three of whom are females. Of those paroled 716 were committed on a definite sentence, and 218 on Reformatory Plan.”

“The grading and parole law continues to work satisfactorily and gives much promise and encouragement for the future. We are often disappointed by the failure of promising parole men to make good, but on the other hand, we are as often encouraged by the less promising who have made good beyond our most sanguine expectations. All of which demonstrates the limitation of human judgment and the difficulty of‘reading the human heart aright.’Most of those who break parole are carried over the line by some weakness, usually intemperance, a weakness that they do not seem able to control.”

“We are glad to be able to say that our expedience with the grading and parole system gives us growing encouragement and hope for the future, because we believe we have hopeful and satisfying evidence that few men break their parole because of the desire to do wrong. As a rule, the parole breaker heartily regrets his misstep, and frequently will make good if given another chance.”

“The parole embodies those ethical principles of conduct that make for normal life and good character. Rationally and constructively applied, it builds up and encourages manhood and at the same time it discourages a disposition to yield to weakening impulses that lead to wrongdoing. Every possible effort should be made to apprehend and return the fugitive parole breaker, for if allowed to remain at large he is almost sure to become a confirmed criminal. Therefore, a more thorough supervision of paroled prisoners is necessary, and a more accurate system for the apprehension and identification of parole breakers seems imperative in every state, and throughout the country, wherever the parole system is in vogue.”

“Of the 934 prisoners paroled 59 per cent were finally discharged by reason of expiration of definite sentence; 13 2-3 per cent, who were committed on the Reformatory Plan, were discharged by the board after having given satisfactory evidence of a desire and purpose to live honestly and become good citizens; 19 2-3 per cent of the whole number paroled violated their paroles; 17 1-3 per cent of the whole number were returned to prison to serve unexpired sentences, leaving 2 1-3 per cent parole violators now at large.”

This system has had a marked tendency to improve the discipline of the prison, for it impels inmates to bend every effort to merit this consideration at the hands of the state authorities. The state law governing the parole of prisoners from the penitentiary is as follows:

THE PAROLE LAWParole of Prisoners,—The State Board of Control may parole any prisoner: Provided,1.No convict shall be paroled who has been previously convicted of a felony other than the one for which he is serving sentence, either in this state or elsewhere.2.No convict serving a time sentence shall be paroled until he shall have served at least one-half of his full term, not reckoning good time.3.No convict serving a life sentence shall be paroled until he has served thirty-five years, less the diminution which would have been allowed for good conduct had his sentence been for thirty-five years, and then only by unanimous consent, in writing, of the members of the Board of Pardons.4.Such convicts while on parole shall remain in the legal custody and under control of the Board of Control, subject at any time to be returned to the prison or reformatory, and the written order of said board, certified by the Warden, shall be a sufficient warrant to any officer to retake and return to actual custody any such convict. Geographical limits wholly within[pg 69][pg 70][pg 71]the state may be fixed in each case, and the same enlarged or reduced according to the conduct of the prisoners.5.In considering applications for parole said board shall not entertain any petition, receive any written communication, or bear any argument from any attorney or other person not connected with said prison, in favor of the parole of any prisoner, but it may institute inquiries by correspondence or otherwise as to the previous history or character of such prisoner.At the present time nearly all the states have inaugurated the parole and grading system similar to the law in operation in this state, and some are considering the advisability of introducing the system. This law is one of the best measures of the so-called modern penology and one in which the leading authorities on such matters feel the most pride.Dynamited Safe, Stephen, Minn.This cut shows the condition of the safe and office of the State Bank of Stephen, Minn., after being wrecked by dynamite. This was done by three men. One escaped, one gave state's evidence and the other is now serving a term at the Minnesota State Prison.Warden's OfficeWarden's Office

Parole of Prisoners,—The State Board of Control may parole any prisoner: Provided,

At the present time nearly all the states have inaugurated the parole and grading system similar to the law in operation in this state, and some are considering the advisability of introducing the system. This law is one of the best measures of the so-called modern penology and one in which the leading authorities on such matters feel the most pride.

Dynamited Safe, Stephen, Minn.This cut shows the condition of the safe and office of the State Bank of Stephen, Minn., after being wrecked by dynamite. This was done by three men. One escaped, one gave state's evidence and the other is now serving a term at the Minnesota State Prison.

This cut shows the condition of the safe and office of the State Bank of Stephen, Minn., after being wrecked by dynamite. This was done by three men. One escaped, one gave state's evidence and the other is now serving a term at the Minnesota State Prison.

Warden's OfficeWarden's Office

Warden's Office

DIMINUTION OF SENTENCEThe following law will give the reader an idea of the“good time”the prisoner earns during imprisonment, and is another powerful incentive toward good conduct. Few prisoners permit themselves to commit violations of rules, the gravity of which subjects them to punishment. A man may be deprived of good time for refusing to obey an order, fighting, insolence to guard, foreman or fellow-prisoner.Diminution of Sentence.—Every convict sentenced for a definite term other than life, whether confined in the state prison or on parole therefrom, may diminish such term as follows:1.For each month, commencing on the day of his arrival, during which he has not violated any prison rule or discipline, and has labored with diligence and fidelity, five days.2.After one year of such conduct, seven days for each month.3.After two years of such conduct, nine days for each month.4.After three years, ten days for each month for the entire time thereafter.Said board, in view of the aggravated nature and frequency of offenses, may take away any or all of the good time previously gained, and, in consideration of mitigating circumstances or ignorance on the part of the convict, may afterwards restore him, in whole or in part, to the standing he possessed before such good time was taken away. Whenever a convict shall pass the entire period of his imprisonment without an unexcused violation of the rules or discipline, upon his discharge he shall be restored to his rights and privileges forfeited by conviction, and receive from the governor a certificate, under the seal of the state, as evidence of such restoration

The following law will give the reader an idea of the“good time”the prisoner earns during imprisonment, and is another powerful incentive toward good conduct. Few prisoners permit themselves to commit violations of rules, the gravity of which subjects them to punishment. A man may be deprived of good time for refusing to obey an order, fighting, insolence to guard, foreman or fellow-prisoner.

Diminution of Sentence.—Every convict sentenced for a definite term other than life, whether confined in the state prison or on parole therefrom, may diminish such term as follows:

Said board, in view of the aggravated nature and frequency of offenses, may take away any or all of the good time previously gained, and, in consideration of mitigating circumstances or ignorance on the part of the convict, may afterwards restore him, in whole or in part, to the standing he possessed before such good time was taken away. Whenever a convict shall pass the entire period of his imprisonment without an unexcused violation of the rules or discipline, upon his discharge he shall be restored to his rights and privileges forfeited by conviction, and receive from the governor a certificate, under the seal of the state, as evidence of such restoration

DISCHARGE ALLOWANCEIn some states there is little or no provision for aiding the discharged prisoner, and in some states when parole is granted his prospective employer must first send railroad fare before he is released. In many states the discharged man is given five dollars in money, while in others he is permitted to earn money during his imprisonment. The following is the law that governs in the state of Minnesota:Upon discharge the Warden, at the expense of the state, shall furnish each convict released with one good, serviceable suit of clothing and underclothing, and, when released between October 1 and March 31 following, with a good, serviceable overcoat; and he shall pay to each convict, when released, $25 in money drawn from the current expense fund.Decoration: Keys, Ball and Chain

In some states there is little or no provision for aiding the discharged prisoner, and in some states when parole is granted his prospective employer must first send railroad fare before he is released. In many states the discharged man is given five dollars in money, while in others he is permitted to earn money during his imprisonment. The following is the law that governs in the state of Minnesota:

Upon discharge the Warden, at the expense of the state, shall furnish each convict released with one good, serviceable suit of clothing and underclothing, and, when released between October 1 and March 31 following, with a good, serviceable overcoat; and he shall pay to each convict, when released, $25 in money drawn from the current expense fund.

Decoration: Keys, Ball and Chain

THE CELLHOUSE BUILDINGWithin the cellhouse building there are 664 cells, ranged tier upon tier, there being six in all. The building is constructed entirely of iron and stone, and the walls are nearly three feet thick. It is safe to say that in this solidly built building more human sorrow is represented than anywhere else in the state. If an authentic record could be made of the tragedies that take place behind these grim, unsympathetic stone walls it would fill volumes. However, it would require the enviable intellect of a Victor Hugo or Charles Read to vividly picture the utter despair and blasted hopes of the many thousands who have been imprisoned within these cheerless walls since the construction of the building. It is absolutely fireproof, but quite antiquated, the sanitation and ventilation being extremely poor. About fifteen prisoners are employed in the cell house, sweeping cells, galleries, passing out water, holystoning the flags in the corridor and keeping the place as clean as possible. Two men are constantly employed in whitewashing the cells and the interior of the cell house, and another's time is wholly occupied in exterminating bedbugs, which are quite plentiful and possess large appetites.The captain makes a tour of the galleries each morning and inspects each cell to see that everything is in order. If a cell floor or other articles are in a slovenly condition the inmate is reported to the deputy warden, whose duty it is to administer a reprimand for negligence. While making this four of inspection he delivers all incoming letters addressed to prisoners. All incoming and outgoing mail is carefully scrutinized before delivery. On Sunday morning material for writing letters[pg 74]is issued to all prisoners who are permitted to write, and the distribution of tobacco is also made at this time. The upper tiers of the galleries used to be the rendezvous for inmates possessing suicidal inclinations, not a few of whom, having lost all courage and lacking the determination to live, chose this method of ending their woes. We use the words“used to be”advisedly, for they have ceased to be an attraction to the death-desiring since the failure to accomplish the result occurred to an inmate who a short time ago took the plunge from the upper tier. In an hour or so he was at work as if nothing unusual had happened. Heretofore a plunge from the upper tiers to the stone flags always meant a call for the undertaker.Cellhouse, Looking EastCellhouse, Looking EastPrison BandPrison BandSpinning Room In Twine Factory looking West.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking West.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking East.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking East.

Within the cellhouse building there are 664 cells, ranged tier upon tier, there being six in all. The building is constructed entirely of iron and stone, and the walls are nearly three feet thick. It is safe to say that in this solidly built building more human sorrow is represented than anywhere else in the state. If an authentic record could be made of the tragedies that take place behind these grim, unsympathetic stone walls it would fill volumes. However, it would require the enviable intellect of a Victor Hugo or Charles Read to vividly picture the utter despair and blasted hopes of the many thousands who have been imprisoned within these cheerless walls since the construction of the building. It is absolutely fireproof, but quite antiquated, the sanitation and ventilation being extremely poor. About fifteen prisoners are employed in the cell house, sweeping cells, galleries, passing out water, holystoning the flags in the corridor and keeping the place as clean as possible. Two men are constantly employed in whitewashing the cells and the interior of the cell house, and another's time is wholly occupied in exterminating bedbugs, which are quite plentiful and possess large appetites.

The captain makes a tour of the galleries each morning and inspects each cell to see that everything is in order. If a cell floor or other articles are in a slovenly condition the inmate is reported to the deputy warden, whose duty it is to administer a reprimand for negligence. While making this four of inspection he delivers all incoming letters addressed to prisoners. All incoming and outgoing mail is carefully scrutinized before delivery. On Sunday morning material for writing letters[pg 74]is issued to all prisoners who are permitted to write, and the distribution of tobacco is also made at this time. The upper tiers of the galleries used to be the rendezvous for inmates possessing suicidal inclinations, not a few of whom, having lost all courage and lacking the determination to live, chose this method of ending their woes. We use the words“used to be”advisedly, for they have ceased to be an attraction to the death-desiring since the failure to accomplish the result occurred to an inmate who a short time ago took the plunge from the upper tier. In an hour or so he was at work as if nothing unusual had happened. Heretofore a plunge from the upper tiers to the stone flags always meant a call for the undertaker.

Cellhouse, Looking EastCellhouse, Looking East

Cellhouse, Looking East

Prison BandPrison Band

Prison Band

Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking West.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking West.

Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking West.

Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking East.Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking East.

Spinning Room In Twine Factory looking East.

THE CHAUTAUQUA CIRCLEThere is in existence in the Minnesota State Prison a Chautauqua circle, being a branch of the main organization, conducted entirely by the inmates and the presiding officers elected from the members thereof.Election of officers occurs once a year. Meetings are held fortnightly in the prison chapel, at which time several papers are read and discussed by the members. At the conclusion of the meeting a critic chosen from the circle reviews the program, points out various errors in composition papers or commends them as the case may be.The membership of this unique organization numbers about thirty, and as old members withdraw new ones are selected from the better educated prisoners. Meetings are always conducted in an orderly manner, not a snigle serious violation of the rules having occurred since the organization—about twenty years ago. Discussions at times becomes exceedingly spirited, especially if a paper is read that attacks the pet hobbies of the several members.As an educational feature of the institution the Chautauqua circle is accomplishing excellent work and deserves the sincere patronage and commendation of the prison authorities.

There is in existence in the Minnesota State Prison a Chautauqua circle, being a branch of the main organization, conducted entirely by the inmates and the presiding officers elected from the members thereof.

Election of officers occurs once a year. Meetings are held fortnightly in the prison chapel, at which time several papers are read and discussed by the members. At the conclusion of the meeting a critic chosen from the circle reviews the program, points out various errors in composition papers or commends them as the case may be.

The membership of this unique organization numbers about thirty, and as old members withdraw new ones are selected from the better educated prisoners. Meetings are always conducted in an orderly manner, not a snigle serious violation of the rules having occurred since the organization—about twenty years ago. Discussions at times becomes exceedingly spirited, especially if a paper is read that attacks the pet hobbies of the several members.

As an educational feature of the institution the Chautauqua circle is accomplishing excellent work and deserves the sincere patronage and commendation of the prison authorities.

BAND AND ORCHESTRALike the majority of the better-class prisons, Minnesota's penitentiary has the honor of having within its walls a well-equipped band and orchestra. They are in charge of an experienced citizen-music teacher, and have made[pg 78]remarkable progress since organization. About nineteen members compose the band, mostly men who have a long time to serve.The orchestra provides music for the services in the prison chapel, and when entertainments are given provides the musical numbers on the program. Of late years it has attained a degree of efficiency that has been commended very highly by prominent visitors to the institution.The band gives a concert each morning during the summer months and also during drill exercises, which take place in the yard every Sunday immediately after chapel service. Concerts are also given in the park on holidays, when the men are enjoying outdoor freedom, which the inmates appreciate very much, helping wonderfully to break the dull, routine monotony of prison life. The band and orchestra cost the state very little, its instruments are paid for out of the fees received from visitors, who pay a twenty-five cent admission to see the institution. This amount is donated for the benefit of the library fund.

Like the majority of the better-class prisons, Minnesota's penitentiary has the honor of having within its walls a well-equipped band and orchestra. They are in charge of an experienced citizen-music teacher, and have made[pg 78]remarkable progress since organization. About nineteen members compose the band, mostly men who have a long time to serve.

The orchestra provides music for the services in the prison chapel, and when entertainments are given provides the musical numbers on the program. Of late years it has attained a degree of efficiency that has been commended very highly by prominent visitors to the institution.

The band gives a concert each morning during the summer months and also during drill exercises, which take place in the yard every Sunday immediately after chapel service. Concerts are also given in the park on holidays, when the men are enjoying outdoor freedom, which the inmates appreciate very much, helping wonderfully to break the dull, routine monotony of prison life. The band and orchestra cost the state very little, its instruments are paid for out of the fees received from visitors, who pay a twenty-five cent admission to see the institution. This amount is donated for the benefit of the library fund.

PRISON NIGHT SCHOOLThe prison that now neglects to provide suitable educational facilities for the instruction of its inmates is considered behind the times. A great many inmates of penitentiaries are illiterate, and the prison night schools afford an excellent opportunity to acquire the fundamentals of a good education. This department is under the supervision of the superintendent of public schools of Stillwater, who is assisted by a corps of teachers chosen from among the inmates. The course of study[pg 79]corresponds to the course pursued in the state primary and grammar schools. There are fourteen classes, ranging from a, b, c class to one in advanced bookkeeping. Three sessions are held weekly, and the school is popular among the prisoners. Those serving reformatory sentences are compelled to attend, but the voluntary attendance is always in excess of the compulsory. During the season of 1907-08 the average attendance was 164, and of this number 48 were compelled to attend, while the balance, 116, attended voluntarily.The prison night school is in operation eight months during the year, and is well partronized, many inmates receiving their first instructions in reading and writing during their period of service. To the ambitious man there is plenty of opportunity for self-improvement, so it can readily be seen that no one need wholly waste the time that he is compelled to serve for infraction of state laws. When school is not in session inmates are granted permission to have all the school books they require in pursuance of studies.

The prison that now neglects to provide suitable educational facilities for the instruction of its inmates is considered behind the times. A great many inmates of penitentiaries are illiterate, and the prison night schools afford an excellent opportunity to acquire the fundamentals of a good education. This department is under the supervision of the superintendent of public schools of Stillwater, who is assisted by a corps of teachers chosen from among the inmates. The course of study[pg 79]corresponds to the course pursued in the state primary and grammar schools. There are fourteen classes, ranging from a, b, c class to one in advanced bookkeeping. Three sessions are held weekly, and the school is popular among the prisoners. Those serving reformatory sentences are compelled to attend, but the voluntary attendance is always in excess of the compulsory. During the season of 1907-08 the average attendance was 164, and of this number 48 were compelled to attend, while the balance, 116, attended voluntarily.

The prison night school is in operation eight months during the year, and is well partronized, many inmates receiving their first instructions in reading and writing during their period of service. To the ambitious man there is plenty of opportunity for self-improvement, so it can readily be seen that no one need wholly waste the time that he is compelled to serve for infraction of state laws. When school is not in session inmates are granted permission to have all the school books they require in pursuance of studies.

THE SHOE INDUSTRY.This factory is conducted by the Western Shoe Co., and annually employs about 225 prisoners. There is an excellent opportunity here for the inmate to learn a trade at which he can make a good living upon his release. Few citizens are employed at this work, but a competent citizen-foreman is in charge of each shop. As far as possible prisoners are taught the business of making shoes, and many of them become very proficient at this work.The company pays a stated price for each piece of[pg 80]work turned out, and the per diem earnings of the prisoners is larger than in any other prison in the country. The volume of business of these two industries amounts annually to more than $2,000,000. Of this total, returns from the twine factory, operated on state account, amount to $1,300,000, while the shoe company, operated on the piece-price system, does a business in excess of $800,000.

This factory is conducted by the Western Shoe Co., and annually employs about 225 prisoners. There is an excellent opportunity here for the inmate to learn a trade at which he can make a good living upon his release. Few citizens are employed at this work, but a competent citizen-foreman is in charge of each shop. As far as possible prisoners are taught the business of making shoes, and many of them become very proficient at this work.

The company pays a stated price for each piece of[pg 80]work turned out, and the per diem earnings of the prisoners is larger than in any other prison in the country. The volume of business of these two industries amounts annually to more than $2,000,000. Of this total, returns from the twine factory, operated on state account, amount to $1,300,000, while the shoe company, operated on the piece-price system, does a business in excess of $800,000.

THE REPAIR SHOP.All the repair work of the institution is performed in this department, and in this shop are located the tinner, plumbers, carpenters, painters, machinists, etc., all under the supervision of a first-class foreman. The tinner makes all the tinware used in the various departments of the prison and attends to its repairing. As the entire institution is heated by steam, the plumbers are kept constantly employed during the winter repairing radiators and overhauling wornout steam pipes. As repairs and improvements are constantly being made and as the prison buildings are quite old, considerable carpenter work is also necessitated each year.Perhaps the busiest men in this shop are the machinists, whose business it is to see that all machinery, shafting, etc., are kept in repair, thus reducing breakdowns to the minimum. This shop is run in an economical manner and annually saves the state thousands of dollars.

All the repair work of the institution is performed in this department, and in this shop are located the tinner, plumbers, carpenters, painters, machinists, etc., all under the supervision of a first-class foreman. The tinner makes all the tinware used in the various departments of the prison and attends to its repairing. As the entire institution is heated by steam, the plumbers are kept constantly employed during the winter repairing radiators and overhauling wornout steam pipes. As repairs and improvements are constantly being made and as the prison buildings are quite old, considerable carpenter work is also necessitated each year.

Perhaps the busiest men in this shop are the machinists, whose business it is to see that all machinery, shafting, etc., are kept in repair, thus reducing breakdowns to the minimum. This shop is run in an economical manner and annually saves the state thousands of dollars.

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