A grim start to the day.

A full day in Dublin. We started with an early bus trip to Kilmainham Gaol - a must-see if I thought we could learn from our past. So many repeated attempts to achieve independence and its brutal consequences,  along with the history of punishment and "new" improved programs to set the prisoners on the right path, emphasizes the sheer viciousness of the powerful. We were glad to escape and breathe the fresh air.

Built in 1798, the open windows were thought to minimize disease. Prisoners were given one small candle every two weeks to use for warmth. 

Closed in 1924 (last prisoner went on to become President), the prison was abandoned until the 1960's when restoration was begun. 

Innovation in the late 1800's in the East wing provided a sky-light so prisoners could see God and rethink their ways.