ABSTRACT
In 1846, Chambers’ Edinburgh Journal expressed regret that the Scottish capital was ‘always behind in movements for social advancement’. Nineteenth-century Glasgow offers a clear illustration of the connection between socio-economic conditions and crime. In Glasgow, as elsewhere, attempts to reclaim juvenile offenders originated from the exertions of both philanthropists and prison officials. The earliest charitable scheme aimed at dealing with juvenile delinquents appears to have been operated by the Glasgow Society for the Encouragement of Penitents, founded in 1815 by the Rev. In spite of initial public support, the Houses of Refuge faced financial problems from the moment they opened. In fact, the opening of the Boys’ House had to be delayed since there was insufficient money to furnish it, and after the first year of operation debts amounted to nearly £2,000.
