The History of Fingerprinting

Our latest on-going exhibit is aimed at teaching visitors about the history of inmate identification, particularly fingerprinting.

In the mid 1800's, the earliest form of prisoner identification was limited to police officers and guards with photographic memories.

Identification later progressed to a more scientific method, that of measuring an inmate's bones. This was known as the "Bertillon System". This method was found to be not so accurate either.

Fingerprinting was first used in England in 1858 by Sir William James Herschel. He was able to prove that fingerprints were unique and never changed throughout a person's lifetime.

For more information please call 613-938-4748 or 1-800-937-4748 or contact us at info@cornwalljail.com.

During your visit, be sure to also check out our PowerPoint presentation revealing the history and crimes of those inmates hung at the Historic Cornwall Jail.