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©J.Fawcett 2000-2004

In 1826, upon revision of the convict system [of which
revisions there were many of over the years ] changes were made in 
the Convict Sytem in Tasmania, and the Prisoners Barrack in Hobart 
Town,which had formerly been considered as a Penitentiary only,
was to be used as a Reception of Prisoners in the Service
of the Government generally, with a view to the more
effectual Application of their Labour, and the Prevention
of Offences arising from so many Men being at large..

The intent was to get convicts out of the streets in general,
but to also reward industrious and well conducted prisoners,
and to deter those with ill intent, a structered class
system was formed,placing  the male prisoners into the
following classes.



Highest Class
This class of men was not given a specific name, but
meant that the convict was well behaved, and trusted enough to
be  allowed to be placed in the Service of Respectable Settlers.


First Class
to consist of such Men, whether Mechanics or Labourers,
as from especial good Conduct will be permitted to sleep
out of Barracks, and to work for themselves the whole of
each Saturday.


Second Class
Those for whom Barrack Accommodation shall be provided, 
and who,subject to a Continuance of good behaviour,
will be allowed to work for themselves the whole of
each Saturday


Third Class.
Men employed on the Public Roads, who will be released
from Work at Noon every Saturday, subject however to 
the condition of good conduct.


Fourth Class.
Refractory or disorderly Characters, to Work in Irons, 
either in the Towns or on the Roads, under the Sentence
of a Magistrate.


Fifth Class
Men of the most degraded and incorrigible Character,
who will be worked in irons,under the Sentence of a 
Magistrate, and kept entirely seperate from other Prisoners


Sixth Class.
Men removed to Maria Island, subject to the Classification 
of the Commandant there.


source:
CT August 25th 1826

NB.This article is designed to assist in giving an overview
of the convict system. It originated from an official order
by the Government,but the wording hear of, with exception
of the classes First - sixth, is of the author - J.fawcett.
All original records should be accessed to confirm any
accounts of the convict system.