On an average there are ten females in the matron's ward. This department is located above the administration quarters, and is entirely separated from the cell house; it is impossible for the occupants of the latter to communicate with the former.

The women's ward is presided over by Miss McKinney, who has been in charge for many years. The rules governing women prisoners are not nearly as strict as [pg 102] those pertaining to the men. Their food, also, is of a better quality. In the summer they are permitted to take outdoor exercise each evening during good behavior. The women prisoners are subject to the grading system and also receive the benefit of the parole law. If they wish to do so they can attend chapel service every Sunday morning. Their work is not very arduous, being mainly confined to keeping the officers' rooms in a neat and orderly condition.