Special Exhibit Now On At The Historic Cornwall Jail

The history of crime and punishment in Ontario is now being highlighted at the Historic Cornwall Jail. A new, temporary exhibit, will trace the history and practice of torture in Medieval times.

The exhibit, made possible by a generous loan by Steve Santini, a Medieval torture expert, will be open for public viewing from July 29th through until August 27th, 2010. The exhibit aims to educate visitors with regard to this dark period of human history.

"Medieval Torture: Dark Deeds In The Dark Ages" features numerous iconic instruments of torture such as thumbscrews, iron face masks, a chastity belt, a sword and axe used for beheading executions, and many other period restraints and instruments of historical punishment. The exhibit does contain some subject matter that may not be suitable for young children, parental guidance and discretion is advised.

The subject matter of the exhibit is controversial, but is pertinent to the understanding of Medieval history. In fact, some aspects of it are still present in some modern societies. Santini believes that "while such objects are unsettling to some, presenting them in a sensitive and historically accurate context, offers us the chance to see how our ancestors viewed criminal justice and superstitions, and how we have evolved over the centuries".

The Historic Cornwall Jail is open Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm with the last admission at 3:00 pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, again with the last admission at 3:00 pm.

Admission fees are $7 for Adults, $5 for Children aged 4 to 12 while children under the age of 4 are admitted free.

For a sneak preview of this special exhibit visit www.tortureexhibit.com
www.cornwalljail.com

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