The stark images below photographed in 1900 speak for themselves of the harsh regime the women (penitents) had to endure. Convents that confined women for what was considered to be immoral behaviour were popularly known as Magdalene Homes. Daily life in the convent had a strong penal element - the women had to work extremely hard whilst serving their penitence.

The convent made an income from the unpaid labour of the women, running a laundry service. The washing was done by hand, which was thought to be purifying for the immoral women with the association between washing dirty clothes and linen. There was a strong religous element to their daily lives with religious images throughout the convent reminding the women of the need to be penitent.

(Thankfully, these dreadful places are no longer with us and we are more compassionate as a people. RC)