Why was the discipline so strict?

Discipline was used to control inmates who were often noisy and violent. Fighting was common, especially in the women’s yard.
On the whole punishment was used regularly - even for the smallest of offences.

Men could be punished for trying to talk to their wives and even children were scolded for playing.

The master and matron in workhouses were capable of terrible cruelty. Discipline was so strict it is not surprising that in some places riots often broke out.

This picture shows the master and matron of Machynlleth workhouse, Mr and Mrs John Jones in 1914.

Find out more about discipline in the workhouse by using the links below ...