In 1902, “an intensive program of
instruction and segregation was initiated in
one wing of an old prison at the village of
Borstal near Rochester, Kent.” Gradually,
the program developed into a training
system for young adult offenders and an
Act was passed in 1908.22

There was much discussion and support for a
Borstal-type institution, particularly from
community groups such as the John Howard
Society, Vancouver Rotary Club, Oxford
Group and Vancouver Centre Liberal

Tt eh

ns Branch Archives

Association. The B.C. Training School was
established on the southeast side of Marine
Drive in Burnaby at the end of 1937. By 1939,
it was known as New Haven,” and housed 19
inmates with two staff. Superintendent A.
McLead and Office and Educational Secretary
E.G.B. (Ernie) Stevens were appointed to
manage the facility.

The institution was classified as a provincial
gaol and subject to the rules governing such
institutions. Its official policy, therefore, was
custody. The facility was also one of the first

22 Wilton, Jean B., May I Talk to Jobn Howard? The Story of J.D. Hobden—A Friend to Prisoners (J.B. Wilton:

Vancouver, B.C., 1973).

23 The name “New Haven” was chosen through a contest sponsored by CKNW radio.

Era of Punishment (1871-1949)

45