General History
The Gaol officially opened and took it's first prisoners in December 1848.
Built of sandstone from Morpeth and Farley, it is considered to be the most intact country gaols in New South Wales with many of the original structures including cell blocks, toilets, awnings and artworks still in the original condition.
Maitland Gaol is the longest continuously operating correctional institution in Australia. After holding some of Australia's most hardened criminals, it closed on the 29 January 1998 and any remaining inmates were transferred to other prisons. The closure of the complex was announced in 1996 as part of an upgrade to the state's prison system. It closed because security did not meet community expectations, conditions were considered unsuitable and the cost of operating the antiquated facility was excessive.
Read more about the Gaol's history below.
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Discipline
Segregation, isolation and restriction to a bread and water diet have often been used in the prison -
Women in prison
Women were housed in Maitland Gaol on a permanent basis from its opening year (1848) up until -
Infamous Inmates
Over its 150 years of operation, the Gaol saw some of the state’s worst offenders walk through -
Executions
A total of 16 men (13 for murder and 3 for rape) were executed at Maitland Gaol between 1843 and -
Drugs and Alcohol
Just like the movies, inmates would attempt to smuggle drugs and alcohol into the gaol. -
Riots and protests
Only one riot took place during the gaol's 150 year history, however protests were numerous over -
The Daily Routine
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to spend a day in gaol?