HMP Wandsworth 175

London Historians History in the Pub.

Wandsworth Prison - a talk to commemorate 175 years of public service.

Wandsworth Prison, opening in 1851 as the Surrey House of Correction, has housed some of London's most notorious villainy, from Jack the Ripper suspects, John Haigh, the Acid Bath murderer, Great Train Robbers, the Krays to name a few. Oscar Wilde also served time there. It was also the site of 135 executions. There are stories of the First and Second World Wars, conscientious objectors and traitors. Prison escapes that made headlines. The staff that worked there, Governors, Officers and others, all have their stories to be told. This illustrated talk will bring these stories to life. 

Our speaker, Stewart McLaughlin, is a retired prison officer and the founding and current curator of the HMP Wandsworth museum. He has written several books on subjects pertaining and is a long-standing Member of London Historians.

Doors open 6pm for 6.30pm start. By all means arrive early and have a drink and a bite in the main bar. Our talk will be in the basement bar.