Research

Scope and Content Note

This volume tracks male and female inmates eligible or under consideration for parole. The volume was kept in conjunction with the "badge system" whereby inmates earned badges and parole eligibility through consecutive weeks of good behavior.

Information recorded varies over time but may include: inmate name and number; badges earned; address; religion; name and occupation of parent or guardian; date of inquiry (sent to parent or guardian to determine suitability of home); date of circular (sent to parent or guardian - content unclear); disposition/parole (date or remark such as "all right," "unfavorable," "mother a prostitute"); age (beginning November 1890); credit (beginning August 1891, an unexplained dollar amount, number of badges earned, or a remark such as "Dis Com" or "authorized by supt."); and parole occupation (beginning October 1893, notations such as "go to school" or "to work in shoe shop").