Fry, Elizabeth Gurney (1780-1845), was a British prison reformer. Reflecting her religious and moral views as a strict Quaker, Fry promoted humane care and treatment of prisoners, especially women and their children. From her first visit to London’s notorious Newgate Prison in 1813 until her death, Fry worked tirelessly for reform. Many of her ideas, which continue to shape prison policies today, include the establishment of separate facilities for women, religious education, and the training in meaningful work for all inmates. She also argued for the prohibition of alcohol in jails. Elizabeth Gurney Fry was born in Norwich, England, on May 21, 1780. She died on Oct. 12, 1845.
