Treadwheel, Stafford Gaol

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Date:1869 - 1871 (c.)

Description:Treadwheels were introduced as a form of prison punishment in 1817, often serving no other purpose than to enforce hard, monotonous work, though some powered pumping or grinding machines.

At Stafford Gaol treadwheels powered the prison's corn mill and also pumped water from wells within the prison grounds. Prisoners were allowed frequent breaks but were kept apart at all times, as seen in this photograph.

The treadmill is believed to be intact but buried beneath the concrete of the Crescent Block exercise yard.

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Donor ref:SAMS Acc. No., P82.54.12, img: 100 (8/662)

Source: Staffordshire Museum Service

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