Horsemonger Lane Gaol was constructed between 1791 and 1799. It was once the largest prison in Surrey, England. It remained Surrey’s principal prison and place of execution until its closure in 1878. William Henry Gibbs was an Infirmary Warder at Horsemonger and had a fascinating life. This work is based on his words: The Life and Adventures of William Henry Gibbs – Turnkey etc.

Education

Like most other country boys, I went to the National School being transferred from  Mame Shephards, who besides our school money, supported herself by selling lollipops which my mouth often watered for when I had no browns to buy them with. The mistress of my present school was a Mrs. Hoder, a tall fine woman who had the misfortune to be lame & walk upon crutches I remember some of the boys (of course not myself) running by mistake inside of the dames crutches & turning her topsy turvey.  The village parson adjudicated on the accident, which terminated in several of us getting a good dressing down and being turned out of the school. I was at this time about ten years of age& ready for any mischief that came in my way, after leaving the old lady to set herself upon her crutches again I was put to another school. I don’t know whether my parents had given instructions for an extra dose of corporal punishment, but this I know I got rather more than my usual quantity.


Transcribed and supplied by Raymond Watts
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