The District practiced three major correctional philosophies during that period: the penitentiary movement, the experimental industrial farm movement, and the rehabilitation movement. The analysis traces the evolution of these theories and their applications in the correctional system in the District. It notes that correctional thinking is now divided regarding whether to abandon the rehabilitative movement entirely and to emphasize punishment or whether to continue to explore community-based corrections and other rehabilitative programs. The text uses material from journals, reports, newspaper articles, and government documents from various time periods to illustrate the reality of prison life. Photographs, index, chapter reference lists, and appended material on the District of Columbia government and the history of the acquisition of the land for the Lorton Reservation in Virginia. (Author summary modified)