Criminal case file HH16/43: Fanny Parker alias Janet Arthur
Fanny Parker alias Janet Arthur: charged with “Attempt to maliciously destroy by explosives Burns Cottage, Ayr” on 8th July 1914. Janet Arthur was committed to H.M. Prison Ayr, untried on 8th July 1014.
Covering sheet of file. Handwritten on the front, “Suffragettes. Janet Arthur alias Fanny Parker” and the archival reference ‘HH16/43’.
Letter from D. Crombie, the Secretary for Prison Commission for Scotland, to all Governors and Chief Constables, 14th Aug 1914. States that the trial of Fanny Parker, charged with attempting to destroy Robert Burn’s cottage with explosives, would not proceed.
Letter from John Lamb, the Scottish Office, Whitehall, forwarding a copy of the letter from J. Dobbie on the 11th August, regarding Janet Arthur, and the accompanying reply. This information is forwarded to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland.
Letter from J. Dobbie, Fanny Parker's solicitor, to the Secretary for Scotland, 11th Aug 1914. Requesting confirmation that Fanny Parker's trial will not proceed following a statement made by the Secretary on the previous day.
Letter to J. Dobbie, Fanny Parker’s solicitor, on 12th August 1914. The letter confirms that the Lord Advocate is issuing instructions to the effect that Parker’s trial, for attempting to destroy Robert Burns’ cottage, will no longer proceed.
A reply from Captain St. John, 10th August to a letter set on the 8th. States that without the permission of the Secretary for Scotland they cannot divulge information gathered relating to the treatment of militant suffragists during their official duties. However, they can refer to answers previously given to the government for similar questions.
Letter from Captain Arthur St. John, the Penal Reform League to the Chairman of the Prison Commission, 8th August 1914. Requests to know whether the information in an attached press cutting is true. Press cutting is from 'Votes for Women', 7th August 1914. 'Another Prison Infamy - Inhuman treatment of an Unconvicted Prisoner in Perth'.
Small memo paper from Durrant’s Press Cuttings, St Andrews House. Notes a press cutting from Votes for Women has been provided to the prisons in August 1914.
Press cutting from Votes for Women titled “Another Prison Infamy: Inhuman Treatment of an Unconvicted Prisoner in Perth. Rectum Feeding Again Employed”. The report details the treatment of Fanny Parker and includes a full recount of her experience in prison, and the attempts to forcibly feed her.
Memo from D. Crombie, the Secretary for the Prisoner Commissioners for Scotland to ‘Office’. Notes to speak to Sir Thomas R. Fraser on his return from Edinburgh, 5th August 1914.
The Secretary for Scotland, Scottish Office minutes of communication between John Lamb, J. H. Gascoigne and the Secretary for Scotland, 17th to 24th July 1914. Regarding the preparation of a licence for Janet Arthur's release under the Prisoners (Temporary Discharge for Ill Health) Act 1913. p1
The Secretary for Scotland, Scottish Office minutes of communication between John Lamb, J. H. Gascoigne and the Secretary for Scotland, 17th to 24th July 1914. Regarding the preparation of a licence for Janet Arthur's release under the Prisoners (Temporary Discharge for Ill Health) Act 1913. p2
The Secretary for Scotland, Scottish Office minutes of communication between P. R. L, J. H. Gascoigne and W. G. Scott, 16th July to 1st August 1914. Regarding the preparation of a licence for Maude Edward's release under the Prisoners (Temporary Discharge for Ill Health) Act 1913. p1
The Secretary for Scotland, Scottish Office minutes of communication between P. R. L, J. H. Gascoigne and W. G. Scott, 16th July to 1st August 1914. Regarding the preparation of a licence for Maude Edward's release under the Prisoners (Temporary Discharge for Ill Health) Act 1913. p2
The Secretary for Scotland, Scottish Office minutes of communication between P. R. L, J. H. Gascoigne and W. G. Scott, 16th July to 1st August 1914. Regarding the preparation of a licence for Maude Edward's release under the Prisoners (Temporary Discharge for Ill Health) Act 1913. p3
Letter to J. H. Gascoigne from E. Blackwell, the Home Office, Whitehall, 18th July 1914. Regarding Maude Edward’s licence for discharge under the Prisoners (Temporary Discharge for Ill-Health) Act 1913. Notes that he does not believe it is possible to discharge the prisoner for an indefinite period dependent on the prisoner’s conduct, as this would not be valid under the terms of the Act.
Note from D. Thomas, Chief Inspector at New Scotland Yard, to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 1st August 1914. Acknowledges receipt of their communication of the 30th.
Transcription of a telephone message left by Inspector MacKinnon, Edinburgh City Police, 28th July 1914. Reports that Janet Arthur walked out of Chalmers Street Nursing Home the previous day, and as yet had not returned.
Memoranda from H. M. Prisons Scotland, Perth Prison regarding the case of Janet Arthur, suffragette prisoner. Notes between W. Harvey, the Secretary for Scotland, D. Crombie (the Secretary for the Prison Commissioners for Scotland), Thomas R. Fraser (medical advisor) and W. G, Scott (the Chairman of the Prison Commission) regarding the health of the prisoner and whether she is suitable for force feeding. Previous medical reports are requested and the possibility of getting blood work discussed. p1
Memoranda from H. M. Prisons Scotland, Perth Prison regarding the case of Janet Arthur, suffragette prisoner. Notes between W. Harvey, the Secretary for Scotland, D. Crombie (the Secretary for the Prison Commissioners for Scotland), Thomas R. Fraser (medical advisor) and W. G, Scott (the Chairman of the Prison Commission) regarding the health of the prisoner and whether she is suitable for force feeding. Previous medical reports are requested and the possibility of getting blood work discussed. p2
Memoranda from H. M. Prisons Scotland, Perth Prison regarding the case of Janet Arthur, suffragette prisoner. Notes between W. Harvey, the Secretary for Scotland, D. Crombie (the Secretary for the Prison Commissioners for Scotland), Thomas R. Fraser (medical advisor) and W. G, Scott (the Chairman of the Prison Commission) regarding the health of the prisoner and whether she is suitable for force feeding. Previous medical reports are requested and the possibility of getting blood work discussed. p3
Memoranda from H. M. Prisons Scotland, Perth Prison regarding the case of Janet Arthur, suffragette prisoner. Notes between W. Harvey, the Secretary for Scotland, D. Crombie (the Secretary for the Prison Commissioners for Scotland), Thomas R. Fraser (medical advisor) and W. G, Scott (the Chairman of the Prison Commission) regarding the health of the prisoner and whether she is suitable for force feeding. Previous medical reports are requested and the possibility of getting blood work discussed. p4
Letter from D. Smart to the Secretary for the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 24th July 1914. Informs the Secretary that the accused, Janet Arthur, has been indicted for trial in the High Court in Glasgow, and asks whether she will be fit to attend the pleading diet, likely in Ayr on 17th August 1914. Draft reply is handwritten on this letter, and states that the Commissioners have been informed that Janet Arthur should be fit to appear, but when a notice of the final date of the pleading diet is received, the accused will need to examined again.
Telegram to the Prisoner Commissioners for Scotland from Parliament, date stamped 23rd July 1914. States “Private notice question for today (begins) to ask whether there is now confined in Perth Prison an unconvicted lady who has been refused bail and who is being violently fed and if so how this been going on and if it is to continue (ends) Please wire observations and suggested reply urgent”.
Typed copy of a telegram, dated 23rd July 1914, address from the Prison Commissioners for Scotland to Albyn, Parliament, London. Provides an answer to question sent on the same date; that the question refers to the case of Janet Arthur who was artificially fed in Perth Prison from the evening of the 13th July to 16th July before being liberated on licence on the 17th July. Directs the enquirer to the Scottish Office files no. 24292/119 for further information.
Medical report from H. Ferguson Watson, the Medical Officer at Perth Prison, 23rd July 1914, forwarded to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland. Details the health of Janet Arthur upon admission and release from prison, including information on her treatment, pulse and temperature. p1
Medical report from H. Ferguson Watson, the Medical Officer at Perth Prison, 23rd July 1914, forwarded to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland. Details the health of Janet Arthur upon admission and release from prison, including information on her treatment, pulse and temperature. p2
Report provided to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland by [A. Young], 22nd July 1914. Reports on bruises found on the arms and forearms of Janet Arthur. Notes on the back indicate that this report has been sent to the prison medical officer for comments. p1
Report provided to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland by [A. Young], 22nd July 1914. Reports on bruises found on the arms and forearms of Janet Arthur. Notes on the back indicate that this report has been sent to the prison medical officer for comments. p2
Report from Margaret Hardy, Matron, to the Governors of H. M. Prison, Ayr, 22nd July 1914. States that the prisoner Janet Arthur had bruises on her arms and legs. When Hardy enquired about them, Janet Arthur said the police had ‘pinched her’.
Note from James Dodd, the Scottish Office, Whitehall, to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 21st July 1914. Notes the transmission from the Secretary for Scotland of a licence for discharge of Janet Arthur.
Letter from D. Crombie, the Secretary for the Prison Commission for Scotland to the Governor of Ayr Prison, 21st July. The Commissioners have received a medical report describing extensive bruising on prisoner Janet Arthur. Requests that the Governor ask the Matron and Medical Officer of the prison to report on whether they observed these bruises on the prisoner on admission to the prison, or afterwards.
Report from Thomas Lindsay, Medical Officer to the Governor of Perth Prison, 20th July 1914. Notes that he is forwarded a report sent from the Physician in Edinburgh regarding the prisoner Janet Arthur.
Copy of a note from Dr Chalmers Watson to Dr Lindsay, 18th July 914. States, ‘I told Captain Parker that I would send you a copy of my report. I sincerely hope that I will have no more medical experience of forcibly fed women’.
Detailed medical report on Miss Fanny Parker by Dr Chalmers Watson. Provides statement given by Dr Lindsay, Perth Prison, detailing the prisoner’s pulse, circulation and force feeding. This is followed by a detailed report from Dr Watson on Miss Fanny Parker upon release and includes descriptions of bruising, pulse, Parker’s heart and genitals. An addendum is included of a more detailed examination from a gynaecological standpoint. p1
Detailed medical report on Miss Fanny Parker by Dr Chalmers Watson. Provides statement given by Dr Lindsay, Perth Prison, detailing the prisoner’s pulse, circulation and force feeding. This is followed by a detailed report from Dr Watson on Miss Fanny Parker upon release and includes descriptions of bruising, pulse, Parker’s heart and genitals. An addendum is included of a more detailed examination from a gynaecological standpoint. p2
Detailed medical report on Miss Fanny Parker by Dr Chalmers Watson. Provides statement given by Dr Lindsay, Perth Prison, detailing the prisoner’s pulse, circulation and force feeding. This is followed by a detailed report from Dr Watson on Miss Fanny Parker upon release and includes descriptions of bruising, pulse, Parker’s heart and genitals. An addendum is included of a more detailed examination from a gynaecological standpoint. p3
Report from J. Grant, the Governor of Perth Prison to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 16th July 1914. Reports that Janet Arthur was released that day under the Prisoners (Temporary Discharge for Ill-Health) Act 1913 into the care of her brother, Captain Parker. He travelled with her to Queen Mary’s Nursing Home, Chalmers Street, Edinburgh, where Janet Arthur would be staying. p1
Report from J. Grant, the Governor of Perth Prison to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 16th July 1914. Reports that Janet Arthur was released that day under the Prisoners (Temporary Discharge for Ill-Health) Act 1913 into the care of her brother, Captain Parker. He travelled with her to Queen Mary’s Nursing Home, Chalmers Street, Edinburgh, where Janet Arthur would be staying. p2
Note from William Harvey detailing a call from Inspector McKinnon, the Edinburgh City Police, 17th July 1914. McKinnon saw the Chairman regarding steps to be taken to watch the Nursing Home in Chalmers Street where Janet Arthur was staying. He was provided with a copy of the prisoner’s conditions for release.
Letter from the to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland from Lindsay, Cuthbertson and Mackenzie, 17th July 1914. Acknowledges receipt, and thanks the Commissioners for notifying them of Janet Arthur’s liberation.
Note on ‘Prison Commissioners for Scotland’ headed paper. Notes that [Janet Arthur] is not to leave the residence she has been placed in without permission from the Prison Commissioners and that she should attend all further proceedings in her case. p1
Note on ‘Prison Commissioners for Scotland’ headed paper. Notes that [Janet Arthur] is not to leave the residence she has been placed in without permission from the Prison Commissioners and that she should attend all further proceedings in her case. p2
Copy of the order from the Secretary for Scotland for the temporary discharge of Janet Arthur from prison under the Prisoners (Temporary Discharge for Ill-Health) Act 1913. Includes the conditions of her licence. p1
Copy of the order from the Secretary for Scotland for the temporary discharge of Janet Arthur from prison under the Prisoners (Temporary Discharge for Ill-Health) Act 1913. Includes the conditions of her licence. p2
Letter from Lindsay, Cuthbertson and Mackenzie to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 16th July 1914. Notes that they have attached a copy of a telegram sent to the Commissioners that afternoon and informs them that Mr Mackenzie will travel to Perth on the 17th to visit Janet Arthur. p1
Letter from Lindsay, Cuthbertson and Mackenzie to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 16th July 1914. Notes that they have attached a copy of a telegram sent to the Commissioners that afternoon and informs them that Mr Mackenzie will travel to Perth on the 17th to visit Janet Arthur. p2
Telegraph to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland from Angus MacKenzie, date stamped 16th July 1914. States, ‘I am acting for Miss Janet Arthur and am instructed to see her tomorrow on most urgent business please instruct Governor of Perth Prison to permit me to see her tomorrow afternoon’.
Letter from William Harvey, the Secretary for the Prison Commission for Scotland to the Governor of Ayr Prison, 16th July 1914. Request a full and detailed report by their medical officer in regard to the case of untried prisoner Janet Arthur, and report from him as Governor. p1
Letter from William Harvey, the Secretary for the Prison Commission for Scotland to the Governor of Ayr Prison, 16th July 1914. Request a full and detailed report by their medical officer in regard to the case of untried prisoner Janet Arthur, and report from him as Governor. p2
Report from A. McGhee, the Governor of Ayr Prison to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 17th July 1914. Provides details of: Janet Arthur’s arrival and admission to the prison on 8th July; when she bathed and exercised; an attempt to take her photograph and fingerprints; and her removal from the prison on the 13th.
Report on Janet Arthur from the Medical Officer of Ayr Prison to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 17th July 1914. Provides details on Arthur’s health since admission to prison including her appearance, her apparent weakness from hunger striking and observations on her heart. p1
Report on Janet Arthur from the Medical Officer of Ayr Prison to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 17th July 1914. Provides details on Arthur’s health since admission to prison including her appearance, her apparent weakness from hunger striking and observations on her heart. p2
Report on Janet Arthur from the Medical Officer of Ayr Prison to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 17th July 1914. Provides details on Arthur’s health since admission to prison including her appearance, her apparent weakness from hunger striking and observations on her heart. p3
Report on Janet Arthur from the Medical Officer of Ayr Prison to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 17th July 1914. Provides details on Arthur’s health since admission to prison including her appearance, her apparent weakness from hunger striking and observations on her heart. p4
Note on ‘Prison Commissioners for Scotland’ paper. States that Janet Arthur will be liberated ‘on licence today’. Dated 16th July 1914.
Typed memoranda signed by William Harvey, 16th July 1914. The Governor and Medical Officer of Ayr Prison confirm that Janet Arthur never fainted while taking a bath in the prison, and that she was able to dress herself afterwards.
Telegraph from the Assistant Under Secretary for Scotland, dated 15th July 1914. Asks the Prison Commissioners for Scotland for a report on the condition of Janet Arthur.
Message from the Secretary for Scotland from Mr Lamb, 15th July 1914, regarding the health of Janet Arthur. Notes that the medical officer from Perth reported a “cardia murmur” and that she was in a low state on admission due to hunger striking. The report states that, although her health is not satisfactory, the doctor is not recommending discharge currently.
Typed communication to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland regarding two telegrams the Governor of Perth Prison has received. The first was received on the 14th July 1914 from Jeanie Allan, asking if Janet Arthur is still alive. The Governor replied, “Arthur is still alive. For further information please apply to Prison Commissioners”. On the 15th July 1914 the Governor received a telegram from Captain ‘Tarker’ (this should be ‘Parker’), “Shall be obliged if you will inform me whether prisoner Janet Arthur is dangerously ill. I am her brother”. The Governor requests the Commissioners instructions on how to respond.
Handwritten on this communication is a discussion of an appropriate response as the medical officer will ‘not say that Arthur is not dangerously ill’. The Governor is advised to respond, ‘Prisoner Janet Arthur’s condition is as good as can be expected in view of her conduct’.
Report from H. Ferguson Watson, Medical Officer, to the Governor of Perth Prison, 16th July 1914. Details the treatment of Janet Arthur, her state of health and that she was ‘fed twice’ and in ‘addition she had 3 enules, all being retained’. A further report is added for the 17th July, recording Arthur’s health and her transportation to a nursing home in Edinburgh.
Report from H. Ferguson Watson, Medical Officer, to the Governor of Perth Prison, 15th July 1914. Records the treatment of Janet Arthur including her sleeping pattern, state of health, what she has been force fed and whether it was retained. The Medical Officer notes that she vomited and at one point collapsed, which he attributed to her mistakenly being allowed to sit-up. Concludes that her health does not appear worse than on admission and that ‘further treatment ought to be tried’.
Report from H. Ferguson Watson, Medical Officer, to the Governor of Perth Prison, 14th July 1914. Records the treatment of Janet Arthur including details of force feeding, her sleeping pattern and state of health. The Medical Officer notes: that her pulse was weak and irregular; a heart murmur and a complaint of pain in her left scapula; that she was fed by nasal tube the night before, and that morning; and that ‘her condition is by no means satisfactory but I am willing to try further treatment’. p1
Report from H. Ferguson Watson, Medical Officer, to the Governor of Perth Prison, 14th July 1914. Records the treatment of Janet Arthur including details of force feeding, her sleeping pattern and state of health. The Medical Officer notes: that her pulse was weak and irregular; a heart murmur and a complaint of pain in her left scapula; that she was fed by nasal tube the night before, and that morning; and that ‘her condition is by no means satisfactory but I am willing to try further treatment’. p2
Report from Thomas Lindsay, Medical Officer, to the Governor of Perth Prison, 14th July 1914. Reports on the transportation of Janet Arthur to Perth Prison. Includes comments on having to immediately assist the Medical Officer with feeding Janet Arthur upon arrival; and that it was his afternoon and evening off, which he hopes will be made up on another day.
Record of a telephone conversation between the Governor of Perth Prison and Dr Devon, 14th July 1914. The Governor states that Janet Arthur has requested books, visits, a solicitor and to have her own doctor. Dr Devon replies that the Governor should be guided by the Medical Officer with regards to visits, but that seeing her own doctor ‘must be absolutely refused’.
Report from J. Grant, the Governor of Perth Prison to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 14th July 1914. Details a request from Janet Arthur to be allowed to receive and write letters, receive books, newspapers, visits and to see a solicitor and her own doctor. The requests were referred to the Medical Officer, all were refused. p1
Report from J. Grant, the Governor of Perth Prison to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 14th July 1914. Details a request from Janet Arthur to be allowed to receive and write letters, receive books, newspapers, visits and to see a solicitor and her own doctor. The requests were referred to the Medical Officer, all were refused. p2
Report from A. McGhee, the Governor of Ayr prison, to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 15th July 1914. Reports that Janet Arthur was certified on the 12th ‘to be suffering from weakness due to refusal to take food’. A warrant was obtained to have her removed to a nursing home, but she refused and on the 13th was transferred to Perth Prison.
A petition to the Sheriff to grant an order for the reception of Janet Arthur from Ayr Prison into a nursing home at 8 Eglinton Terrace, Ayr. The request for this removal is because Janet Arthur is afflicted with ‘weakness due to refusal of food’, and is made by Andrew McGhee, the Governor of Ayr prison, 12th July 1914. It is also signed by the medical practitioners Andrew Young and Charles Douglas. p1
A petition to the Sheriff to grant an order for the reception of Janet Arthur from Ayr Prison into a nursing home at 8 Eglinton Terrace, Ayr. The request for this removal is because Janet Arthur is afflicted with ‘weakness due to refusal of food’, and is made by Andrew McGhee, the Governor of Ayr prison, 12th July 1914. It is also signed by the medical practitioners Andrew Young and Charles Douglas. p2
A page from the sick register in Ayr Prison reporting on the prisoner Janet Arthur between 8th to 15th July 1914. Includes notes of examinations, force feeding, her temperature, pulse, and respiration. p1
A page from the sick register in Ayr Prison reporting on the prisoner Janet Arthur between 8th to 15th July 1914. Includes notes of examinations, force feeding, her temperature, pulse, and respiration. p2
Record of a conversation with Janie Allan reported by the Governor[?] of Ayr Prison on Prison Commissioners for Scotland headed paper, 13th July 1914. Janie Allen saw the Governor and informed him that Janet Arthur is the ‘niece of a very distinguished person in England’, that Arthur was determined to die in prison, and that she had tried to persuade Arthur to enter into a nursing home, but could not convince her.
Report from A. Young, Medical Officer, to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 12th July 1914. Reports that he recommended the removal of Janet Arthur to a nursing home that afternoon, but she has refused to leave the prison. Arthur has been on complete hunger strike, taking no food or drink since ‘Tuesday night’. Young suggests that moving her by car to Perth to be force fed should be possible. p1
Report from A. Young, Medical Officer, to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 12th July 1914. Reports that he recommended the removal of Janet Arthur to a nursing home that afternoon, but she has refused to leave the prison. Arthur has been on complete hunger strike, taking no food or drink since ‘Tuesday night’. Young suggests that moving her by car to Perth to be force fed should be possible. p2
Note of train times between Ayr and Perth with the name ‘Arthur’ underlined, on Prison Commissioners for Scotland headed paper. Likely referencing the transportation of prisoner Janet Arthur to Perth Prison for force feeding.
Front of a H. M. Prisons Scotland file and associated minutes, under subject is suffragette prisoner Janet Arthur, untried, in Ayr Prison, 13th July. The minutes detail a discussion with the medical officer from Ayr Prison, who recommends Arthur’s release on license to a nursing home, to be watched by police ‘continuously’. Due to lack of resources the police cannot complete this request and the transportation of Arthur from Ayr Prison to Perth is arranged.
Telegram sent to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, date stamped 11th July 1914. States, ‘Nothing traced against Janet Arthur Scotland Yard’.
Note from the Governor of Perth Prison, 13th July 1914. States that authority must be sought to force feed prisoner Janet Arthur on arrival to Perth Prison, if deemed necessary. Also notes, ‘She must be awarded reasonable [facilities] for her defence but care must be taken to see that nothing is brought in’. p1
Note from the Governor of Perth Prison, 13th July 1914. States that authority must be sought to force feed prisoner Janet Arthur on arrival to Perth Prison, if deemed necessary. Also notes, ‘She must be awarded reasonable [facilities] for her defence but care must be taken to see that nothing is brought in’. p2
Letter from B. Thomson, the Criminal Record Office (Finger Print Section), New Scotland Yard, to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 11th July 1914. States that the finger prints supplied for Janet Arthur failed to match any taken previously. Notes that the supplied finger prints are blurred, but if it is possible to procure a clear set, they will undertake to search again.
Telegram from the Assistant Under Secretary for Scotland to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, date stamped 10th July 1914. States that in the treatment of Janet Arthur, the usual discretion should be applied and that he is returning the file with instructions for reference.
Photograph of Fanny Parker, alias Janet Arthur, being escorted from Ayr Sheriff Court by a police officer, 1914.
Letter from B. Thomson, New Scotland Yard to Scott, 17th July 1914. Acknowledges receipt of his letter on the 10th regarding Janet Arthur, and encloses a copy of a photograph of her for use.
Envelope with the header, ‘On His Majesty’s Service’. Handwritten on the front, ‘Photo of Janet Arthur alias Fanny Parker’.
Note to the Governor of Duke Street Prison from James Devon, 9th July 1914. Asks the Governor to show the enclosed photograph of the suffragist prisoner Janet Arthur to staff to ascertain if she has previously been in prison.
A handwritten addition to this note is directed to the Prison Commissioners. D. Drysdale, the Governor of Duke Street Prison, confirms that the photograph has been shown to staff. They believe it bears a resemblance to Ethel Moorhead, but are not certain as the photograph is ‘indistinct’.
Back page of a note to the Governor of Duke Street Prison from James Devon, 9th July 1914. Handwritten is the name ‘Janet Arthur’ and the note ‘proofs sent to Edin[burgh] Police (Fraser McKinnon) 17.vii.14’.
Note to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland of a telephone message from Mr Smart, the Crown Office, 10th July 1914. States that the Procurator Fiscal, Ayr, telephoned to confirm that suffragette prisoner Janet Arthur, would be ‘fully committed “in five minutes”’. The Commissioners may take it that she has now been fully committed.
Note to ‘Secretary’ regarding newspaper reports relating to Janet Arthur, 9th July 1914. Given Arthur’s conduct the writer has asked Dr Dunlop to examine her and report on her mental condition, ‘particularly as she is untried and we have no official information regarding her’. Notes that he does not believe force feeding can be undertaken in the meantime.
Memorandum, 9th July 1914 detailing a request for Dr Dunlop to examine untried prisoner Janet Arthur with a view to reporting on her mental condition. Dr Dunlop concluded that she was not insane, that he attempted to procure a set of finger prints from her, and that if she continues to hunger strike it may be necessary to liberate her.
Newspaper clipping from the Scotsman, 9th July 1014, titled ‘Suffragette Outrages. Attempt to Destroy Burns’s Cottage. Relics in Danger’. Describes the attempt by two women to burn down Robert Burns’ Cottage, and one of their capture by the watchman on duty. Two ‘bomb-like’ objects were found at the scene, and the arrest, conduct and behaviour in the Sheriff Court of the woman captured, Janet Arthur, are described.
Minutes of the Secretary for Scotland regarding Janet Arthur, 9th - 11th July 1914. Notes that Janet Arthur has given no trouble in prison but refuses food. In view of newspaper reports of her conduct, her mental condition is to be examined. Further minutes record that she is considered a suitable case for force feeding, that they are aware she is untried and a request is made for a list of cases of forcible feedings in recent times. p1
Minutes of the Secretary for Scotland regarding Janet Arthur, 9th - 11th July 1914. Notes that Janet Arthur has given no trouble in prison but refuses food. In view of newspaper reports of her conduct, her mental condition is to be examined. Further minutes record that she is considered a suitable case for force feeding, that they are aware she is untried and a request is made for a list of cases of forcible feedings in recent times. p2
Report from A. McGhee, the Governor of Ayr Prison to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 8th July 1914. Details the admission of Janet Arthur to prison, untried, for attempt to destroy Robert Burns’ Cottage, and that she has given no trouble. Requests instructions on whether the prisoner’s photograph should be taken as she is untried. D. Crombie, the Secretary for the Prison Commissioners, confirms that her finger prints and photograph should be taken. They are unsuccessful in obtaining a photograph.
A table with details of other Suffragette prisoners - Arabella Scott, Edith Johnston (alias Ethel Moorhead, Margaret Morrison, May Humphreys), Frances Gordon and Maude Edwards – including information on their offences, where they were tried, their admission to prison and whether or not they went on hunger strike and were force fed.
List of previous convictions against Suffragette prisoner Edith Johnston, 1912 - 1913. Includes information on her offence, where she was convicted, her sentence, aliases and how she was discharged.
Note from the Secretary for Scotland, 20th July 1914, stating that the Crown Office telephoned that Janet Arthur’s trial is to take place in Glasgow on 27th August in the High Court. An indictment will be served on her while she is in the nursing home. p1
Note from the Secretary for Scotland, 20th July 1914, stating that the Crown Office telephoned that Janet Arthur’s trial is to take place in Glasgow on 27th August in the High Court. An indictment will be served on her while she is in the nursing home. p2
Letter from John Lamb to the Master of Polwarth, 18th July 1914. Notes that: the Master of Polwarth has had a lot of trouble with [Fanny] Parker; he will advise that she should be tried as soon as possible; if Captain Parker visits him, he will know what to say; and that he found the Captain pleasant and courteous. p1
Letter from John Lamb to the Master of Polwarth, 18th July 1914. Notes that: the Master of Polwarth has had a lot of trouble with [Fanny] Parker; he will advise that she should be tried as soon as possible; if Captain Parker visits him, he will know what to say; and that he found the Captain pleasant and courteous. p2
Letter from A. C. Parker to the Chairman of the Prison Commissioners for Scotland, 18th July 1914. Writes to inform him that he is travelling to Liverpool and to supply a forwarding address for any communications.
A message communicating that Janet Arthur is probably going to the Queen Mary Nursing Home, 29-33 Chalmers Street. The expense of her removal has been authorised and the place is to be watched closely. p1
A message communicating that Janet Arthur is probably going to the Queen Mary Nursing Home, 29-33 Chalmers Street. The expense of her removal has been authorised and the place is to be watched closely. p2
Report by William Harvey on messages relating to Janet Arthur, 16th July 1914. The Governor of Perth Prison phones and confirms that Arthur, accompanied by a Medical Officer and Prison Warder, has left by car for Edinburgh. The Governor notes that the second class warder Margaret MacIver who transferred from Dundee has identified ‘Arthur’ as the suffragette prisoner ‘Parker’. Inspector McKinnon, Edinburgh Police, has been asked to organise officers to watch Chalmers Street House, where Parker will be staying.
Letter from John Lamb to the Master of Polwarth, 15th July 1914. Lamb writes that he has been visited by Captain Parker, the brother of Janet Arthur, and their mother. He notes that Captain Parker is not sympathetic to his sister’s views but would like to arrange her examination by an independent doctor. He also believes he may be able to convince his sister to enter a nursing home. Regarding the case of Frances Gordon, Lamb notes that a number of questions have been made to the Secretary for Scotland about her treatment by enemata. He notes that this was likely ‘done solely for medical reasons’, but that this form of feeding should not be resorted to ‘except in a case where medical reasons, independent of the desirability of keeping the prisoner in prison, render It absolutely necessary’. p1
Letter from John Lamb to the Master of Polwarth, 15th July 1914. Lamb writes that he has been visited by Captain Parker, the brother of Janet Arthur, and their mother. He notes that Captain Parker is not sympathetic to his sister’s views but would like to arrange her examination by an independent doctor. He also believes he may be able to convince his sister to enter a nursing home. Regarding the case of Frances Gordon, Lamb notes that a number of questions have been made to the Secretary for Scotland about her treatment by enemata. He notes that this was likely ‘done solely for medical reasons’, but that this form of feeding should not be resorted to ‘except in a case where medical reasons, independent of the desirability of keeping the prisoner in prison, render It absolutely necessary’. p2
Letter from John Lamb to the Master of Polwarth, 15th July 1914. Lamb writes that he has been visited by Captain Parker, the brother of Janet Arthur, and their mother. He notes that Captain Parker is not sympathetic to his sister’s views but would like to arrange her examination by an independent doctor. He also believes he may be able to convince his sister to enter a nursing home. Regarding the case of Frances Gordon, Lamb notes that a number of questions have been made to the Secretary for Scotland about her treatment by enemata. He notes that this was likely ‘done solely for medical reasons’, but that this form of feeding should not be resorted to ‘except in a case where medical reasons, independent of the desirability of keeping the prisoner in prison, render It absolutely necessary’. p3
A handwritten note from H. Ferguson Watson added to the back of a letter from John Lamb to the Master of Polwarth, 15th July 1914. He notes that treating Frances Gordon by nutrient enemata was absolutely necessary, they have not been given previously because ‘no other prisoner showed evidence of gastritis’.
Letter from John Lamb to Captain A. C. Parker, 15th July 1914. A report on the condition of Parker’s sister has been sent for his reference. This notes her state of health upon admission, and that she is currently being force fed. Lamb reports that the Secretary for Scotland sympathises with his, and their mother’s anxiety and confirms that it should still be possible to make arrangements to have Fanny Parker transferred to a nursing home where her safe custody can be ensured. p1
Letter from John Lamb to Captain A. C. Parker, 15th July 1914. A report on the condition of Parker’s sister has been sent for his reference. This notes her state of health upon admission, and that she is currently being force fed. Lamb reports that the Secretary for Scotland sympathises with his, and their mother’s anxiety and confirms that it should still be possible to make arrangements to have Fanny Parker transferred to a nursing home where her safe custody can be ensured. p2
Letter from John Lamb to Captain A. C. Parker, 15th July 1914. A report on the condition of Parker’s sister has been sent for his reference. This notes her state of health upon admission, and that she is currently being force fed. Lamb reports that the Secretary for Scotland sympathises with his, and their mother’s anxiety and confirms that it should still be possible to make arrangements to have Fanny Parker transferred to a nursing home where her safe custody can be ensured. p3
Memorandum regarding Janet Arthur signed by William Harvey, 16th July 1914. Records a visit by Captain Parker, brother of Janet Arthur, to the Commissioners’ Office and his conversation with Dr Devon and the Chairman. They agree, that if they can convince Arthur, it would be best if she was transferred to a nursing home and the Captain asks for her to be seen by an independent doctor. Captain Parker agrees that he would not assist his sister in any attempt she might make to escape the nursing home. He also requests a detailed report as to Arthur’s treatment in prison, this is denied but Dr Devon suggests appealing to the Secretary for Scotland for this information. The meeting concludes with the decision to give an order for discharge on licence for Arthur to be taken to Perth by Captain Parker. p1
Memorandum regarding Janet Arthur signed by William Harvey, 16th July 1914. Records a visit by Captain Parker, brother of Janet Arthur, to the Commissioners’ Office and his conversation with Dr Devon and the Chairman. They agree, that if they can convince Arthur, it would be best if she was transferred to a nursing home and the Captain asks for her to be seen by an independent doctor. Captain Parker agrees that he would not assist his sister in any attempt she might make to escape the nursing home. He also requests a detailed report as to Arthur’s treatment in prison, this is denied but Dr Devon suggests appealing to the Secretary for Scotland for this information. The meeting concludes with the decision to give an order for discharge on licence for Arthur to be taken to Perth by Captain Parker. p2
Memorandum regarding Janet Arthur signed by William Harvey, 16th July 1914. Records a visit by Captain Parker, brother of Janet Arthur, to the Commissioners’ Office and his conversation with Dr Devon and the Chairman. They agree, that if they can convince Arthur, it would be best if she was transferred to a nursing home and the Captain asks for her to be seen by an independent doctor. Captain Parker agrees that he would not assist his sister in any attempt she might make to escape the nursing home. He also requests a detailed report as to Arthur’s treatment in prison, this is denied but Dr Devon suggests appealing to the Secretary for Scotland for this information. The meeting concludes with the decision to give an order for discharge on licence for Arthur to be taken to Perth by Captain Parker. p3
Letter from W. G. Scott to John Lamb, 13th July 1914. Discusses the difficulty with prisoner Janet Arthur, the proposal to move her to a nursing home, and the decision to transfer her to Perth Prison. Comments that with the addition of Janet Arthur they now have four hunger striking suffragettes in Perth Prison. p1
Letter from W. G. Scott to John Lamb, 13th July 1914. Discusses the difficulty with prisoner Janet Arthur, the proposal to move her to a nursing home, and the decision to transfer her to Perth Prison. Comments that with the addition of Janet Arthur they now have four hunger striking suffragettes in Perth Prison. p2
To the Master of Polwarth from John Lamb, 14th July 1914. He has received word from Mrs Parker that Janet Arthur was recently examined by a medical friend, Dr Mabel Jones, who reported that she was very ill and that she had seen her faint in her bath. Lamb communicates that he has laid the matter before the Secretary for Scotland and includes the reply he has sent to Mrs Parker.
Copy of a letter sent from John Lamb to Mrs Frances E. J. Parker, 14th July 1914. Lamb confirms that he has laid before the Secretary for Scotland the content of her letter and visit of the same date. He informs Mrs Parker that her letter has been forwarded to the Prison Commissioners for Scotland.
Letter from John Lamb to the Master of Polwarth, 11th July 1914. Letter regarding the prisoner Janet Arthur; Lamb notes that he realised there would be some difficulty with her as it is not a case that the Crown Office would allow bail to and the prisoner can not be liberated under the temporary discharge act on licence. p1
Letter from John Lamb to the Master of Polwarth, 11th July 1914. Letter regarding the prisoner Janet Arthur; Lamb notes that he realised there would be some difficulty with her as it is not a case that the Crown Office would allow bail to and the prisoner can not be liberated under the temporary discharge act on licence. p2