The Napoleonic Prison of Norman Cross

Norman Cross was the site of the world's first purpose-built prisoner-of- war camp constructed during the Napoleonic Wars. Opened in 1797, it was more than just a prison: it was a town in itself, with houses, offices, butchers, bakers, a hospital, a school, a market and a banking system. It was an important prison and military establishment in the east of England with a lively community of some 7,000 French inmates. Alongside a comprehensive examination of the prison itself, this detailed and informative book, compiled by a leading expert on the Napoleonic era, explores what life was like for inmates and turnkeys alike - the clothing, food, health, education, punishment and, ultimately, the closure of the depot in 1814.

PAUL CHAMBERLAIN has made a study of the subject for many years, visiting many of the sites associated with these prisoners. He is Vice-Chairman and Trustee of the Norman Cross Eagle Appeal, a project that restored the memorial to French prisoners of war at Norman Cross, and promotes knowledge of and interest in these men held at that prison. He is a regular contributor to publications such as First Empire magazine and The Waterloo Journal and is a Fellow of the International Napoleonic Society.