Reading Gaol
Photograph from Reading Chronicle Collection - July 1938
A view of Reading Gaol from Watlington Street, overlooking Blake's Cottages, Forbury Road and the River Kennet.
Reading Gaol, built in 1844 and made famous by Oscar Wilde's 1898 'Ballad of Reading Gaol', was being discussed by the Home Secretary, Sir Samuel Hoare in the House of Commons on the 27 July 1938 as to its future. One of the proposals was for it to be demolished as it had been disused as a prison for some time, yet was still retained by the Home Office. It was suggested that the site be used for a new civic centre. Reading Corporation had been eager to buy the site for some time and after Hoare's speech, thought their chances were increased. The prison now known as HM Prison Reading, closed in 2013.
This photograph was published in the Berkshire Chronicle on 29 July 1938.
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See related topic: Reading Gaol