1850-1940 

As of 1850, solitary confinement was the norm. Interaction among prisoners was not allowed. Therefore, during religious services, each detainee had their own cubicle. This allowed them to look at the pastor but not at other detainees. 

Objects:

• Audio-visual: clip from ‘Prison Life and Reclassification’. The church procession and the chaplain’s visit. 1925, collection Nationaal Instituut voor Beeld en Geluid.

• Warning sign from the penitentiary church in Breda; approx. 1900, own collection.

“Detainees are strongly recommended to keep themselves as calm and quiet as possible during religious practice and not to disturb it. in addition, they are required to sit upright. Violation of these regulations will be punished.”