Maisel, David F.,

The prison system supported by Madison is the Auburn system. In the early 19th century, American social reformers advocated the creation of "penitentiaries" (houses of penitence) in which prisoners engaged in hard labor during the day and solitary and silent reflection at other times. Auburn Prison in Auburn, N.Y. was a pioneer in this movement. This innovative facility became a model for future prison construction.

From the description of James Madison letter and lithograph, 1828, [ca. 1840]. (Cornell University Library). WorldCat record id: 64692754