We are a large part of the Living History weekends at the Castle throughout the year. Visitors meet our staff and prisoners, both young and old, both inside the prison and out in the grounds of the Castle. Everyone has a story to tell – from Mr and Mrs Foster, the Governor and Matron of the prison, to the lowly prisoners. All these accounts are taken from our archives and researched and portrayed by each individual member.

 

Money was originally donated from the FOLC to provide us with museum standard costumes. These are still put to good use, some shared and some individually used. This year (2011) we have been lucky to receive a substantial grant for 4 more costumes from the EEV (Encouraging Engagement with Volunteers) We have had these made to measure for our matron, vicar, wardress and prison visitor. They have been put to good use so far and have become the main topics of conversation during the weekends. We have also had new interest in the group because of them.

 

Outside of the actual re-enactment weekends we are a very social group who meet regularly for informal meetings – to discuss many topics relating to the prison and its inmates both here and in Australia!! We have regular training sessions and also visits – e.g. the Galleries of Justice. In the summer we have a group BBQ, usually in Doug and Margaret’s garden, where we can relax and get to know each other better.

 

This year (2011) we have been very active in helping to promote the Castle. Several members were at the launch of the new website - ‘Lincs to the past’ – at the Collection in May. Quite a strange sight to see Victorians at a 21st century laptop!! We have also helped with the filming of a BBC series and taking a group around at night for a ‘ghost hunt’ – not for the faint hearted!!

 

Please check out our Gallery of photos. These are of both current and retired members, some from the very beginning in 1995! Thanks to Margaret, Helen and Phil Crow for their photos. If anyone has old photos of the group that they would like to donate, please contact us.

 

If any of this whets your appetite, please contact either Margaret or Helen via prisongroup@folc.co.uk or telephone the castle on: 01522 511068 and leave us a message.

 

The Prison re-enactment group, formed in 1995, is a growing team of FOLC volunteers who enjoy recreating life in the Victorian prison! We have 4-5 re-enactment weekends per year. Please check the Events page for any  forthcoming events.

Links

 

Galleries of Justice

 

Port Arthur