Intercepted letters to an inmate

Statement on Language

Some content in this finding aid may contain offensive terminology. For more information on why this language is occasionally retained, see: New York State Archives Statement on Harmful Language in Descriptive Resources.

Overview of the Records

Repository
New York State Archives
222 Madison Avenue
Albany, NY 12230
Summary
This series consists of transcripts of one inmate's incoming correspondence. Since the institution's superintendent held the originals; it is unlikely that the inmate received the letters. The letters which discuss his and other youths' activities may have been used to help make a parole decision and/or to monitor the inmate's associations once on parole. Subjects include crimes committed or planned and/or arrests of and legal proceedings against youths; parties; drinking; sexual encounters and the inmate's chances of being released.
Title
Intercepted letters to an inmate
Quantity
0.1 cubic feet
Inclusive Dates
Series Number
A3255
Creator
Arrangement

Chronological by date of letter.

Scope and Content Note

These are carbon typescript transcripts of one inmate's incoming correspondence, almost all written by one person.

The cover sheet states that the originals were held by the institution's superintendent; it is unlikely, due to the nature of the letters, that they were ever passed on to the inmate. It is unclear who compiled the transcripts and for what purpose; they may have been used to help make a parole decision and/or to monitor the inmate's associations once on parole.

In the letters, a friend of the inmate discusses his and other youths' activities. Topics discussed, often in graphic detail, include: robberies and other crimes committed or planned by the youths; arrests of and legal proceedings against some of the youths; parties and drinking; sexual encounters; and the inmate's chances of being released.

Custodial History

The Dept. of Correction placed these records on loan to the Syracuse University Library from 1960-1977.

Access Restrictions

There are no restrictions regarding access to or use of the material.

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