Research

Scope and Content Note

This series contains the only existing volumes of the daily journal that were maintained by Sing Sing Prison's Principal Keeper. The journal provides a daily summary of information on the population of the incarcerated individuals and the prison staff. Volume One covers September 11, 1917, to July 7, 1918, while Volume Two covers May 3 to June 10, 1938.

Volume One contains the following information on incarcerated individuals: the number counted in the morning census with locations (condemned cells, Wingdale, hospital, dormitory, main hall) and grade (A, B, or C); number received and discharged; and number counted in the evening census. The volume includes the following information on prison guards: number employed (day duty and night duty); number absent (sickness, vacation, without leave); number appointed, resigned or discharged.

Volume Two includes the following information on incarcerated individuals: daily count; number received, discharged and transferred; number of visits between incarcerated individuals in special sections of the prison; type of entertainment provided (i.e., moving pictures or baseball); and name of anyone working outside the prison walls. Relating to the prison's civilian and guard staff, the volume includes the total number of staff employed, discharged, or resigned and the names and total number of any absent staff.