Colonial Gaoler, Colonial Williamsburg, Williamsburg, Virginia

The gaoler, along with his family, was responsible for prisoners waiting trial. His wife was expected to feed the prisoners and the children helped to clean and maintain the facility; all as part of the husband's salary.

Those housed here were normally waiting trial, whipping or other physical punishment, or to be put to death. A variety of shackles and restraining devices can be seen hanging behind him.

The gaol at Colonial Williamsburg was used in the filming of the movie "John Adams."