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Where can I obtain prison records?

Can I obtain old prison records?

  • A man that I believe was the father of my ancestor appears on the 1880 census in the MO State Penitentiary. Is there any way possible to find some old prison records that might reveal WHY he was in there? Relatives have mentioned the name James--as in Jesse James gang and I'd really like to find out if he was a member of that gang or what exactly it was that he got into trouble for. I'm wondering if the old records may've been placed at the National Archives. Any suggestions? Thanks

  • Answer:

    Historical records for the Missouri State Penitentiary are held at the Missouri State Archives in Jefferson City, MO. The records include the prisoner's name, prison number, some background information (place of birth, education, family), crime committed, and date of release. Here's a link to their web page describing the collection: http://www.sos.mo.gov/archives/pubs/archweb/pen.asp Click on "Access Policy and Statement" for their hours and address. You may be able to order a copy of the record by mail. Check out this page: http://www.sos.mo.gov/archives/resources/faq.asp Good luck!

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Other answers

You could post your ancestor's name here and someone may be able to find something about him, or you might try here. http://www.sos.mo.gov/archives/pubs/archweb/pen.asp

Joyce B

i think you can obtain ANY prison records because criminals dont have the right to privacy that citizens have.when you are convicted of a crime,you have no legal rights.

Boondhi

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