Your letters

Dartmoor Prison

I was fascinated seeing the full page reproduction dated 1815 of Dartmoor Prison (FT January 2020). It reminded me that sometimes the prominent figures and events of the past can touch our everyday lives. Let me explain.

Daniel Asher Alexander was the principal architect of Dartmoor Prison. He was also the principal architect of Maidstone Prison, both of which are still in service today. Daniel Asher Alexander, architect and engineer amongst his many roles and achievements, was also the surveyor to the London Dock Company between 1796 and 1831. As surveyor to Trinity House, he built a number of lighthouses.

When he retired he settled in Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight. He lived at The Towers in the High Street, the building still stands. If you