Looking back on our relationship and my career in sociology, it is apparent to me now that he drew me into the area of prison research, got me started, and then, in a sense, passed it on to me and later to other students. In reviewing the sociology of the prison here, I will attempt to describe Cressey's early direct contribution and his continued influence on me and the field. But in order to accomplish this, I must fill in some details about his character and our relationship. (Author abstract)