How do you pronounce ‘gaol’?

In the olden days, the word ‘gaol’ was used instead of ‘jail’, and at one time, our museum was known as ‘Olde Gaol Museum.’ Both ‘gaol’ and ‘jail’ originated from the Latin word for cage, caveola. Over time, the Norman French developed the word into gaiole or gaole, while the Parisian French developed jaiole or jaile. Norman French moved into Great Britain with the Norman Conquest in the 11th Century, where until the 17th Century, “gaol” was pronounced with a hard ‘g’ sound. It has since gradually transitioned to sound like jail. The usage of the word ‘gaol’ persists today in print primarily because of British tradition, however its use is obsolete in spoken language in favour of ‘jail’.

Why is it a jail and not a penitentiary?

The Victoria County Gaol was constructed at the same time as the county courthouse. Both were required when Victoria County (now Kawartha Lakes) separated from Peterborough County. In those early days, the county gaol housed those awaiting trial (which were held a few times a year with judges moving from courthouse to courthouse in circuits), those who were living on the streets or committing the crime of vagrancy, and those who were serving short sentences for crimes that were not capital offenses. Such offenders were either hanged or sent to the Kingston penitentiary. Even after the Lindsay jail was operated by the provincial government, it continued to house those serving short-term sentences (two years less a day.) Penitentiaries are administered by the federal government and provide long-term rehabilitation.

How many hangings occurred at the Lindsay jail?

Between 1864 and 1924, five men were sentenced to hang in the courtyard. Only two made it to the gallows. Visit our museum to learn all about these five men, their crimes, and what became of them.

When did the jail close?

The Lindsay jail remained in operation until 2003, when the Central East Correctional Centre was constructed by the province just outside of Lindsay. The building remained vacant until 2011 when it opened as a museum.

Who was the first male inmate?

The first person to serve time at the Victoria County Gaol (Lindsay Jail) was Donald McCallum (age 29, born in Canada West) on February 12, 1863. He was charged with not paying a fine and sentenced to 30 days. He was released on March 13, 1863, discharged for having served his time.

Who was the first female inmate?

On May 7, 1863, both Bridget Murray and Bridget McNamara were committed to the Victoria County Gaol (Lindsay jail) for the charge of not paying a fine. Both women were born in Ireland and sentence to serve 30 days. Bridget Murray was 32 years old and released June 5. Bridget McNamara was 20 years old and released June 7.

Who was the youngest male inmate?

On May 1, 1876, Jonathan Howard, age 8, was committed to the jail on charges of larceny (theft of personal property). He was charged with three indictments of larceny and sentenced to ten days in gaol and two years reformatory.

Who was the first female inmate?

On May 25, 1866, Victoria Brooks, age 7, was committed to the jail on charge of vagrancy (being homeless) and sentenced 30 days. Her mother, Mary Brooks, age 31, also charged with vagrancy on the same day, was sentenced 30 days of hard labour. They were discharged June 23, but were once again sent to the County Gaol on July 19 for vagrancy and given the same sentences. Visit the museum to learn more about the women and children who served time at this jail.