People are being invited to discuss whether Ipswich's Margaret Catchpole was a criminal or a woman charting her own path - plus take a deep dive into crime and punishment in Suffolk’s lawless past.
Catchpole, who died in 1819, was a servant in various houses before being convicted of stealing a horse and escaping from Ipswich Gaol.
She was captured and taken to the Australian prison colony of New South Wales, where she spent her remaining days.
And now an exhibition featuring Suffolk legend, 'Behind Bars', has opened at The Hold in Ipswich, the home of Suffolk Archives.
It is a free exhibition that opened on Friday and runs until January 17, with a series of talks, walks and workshops available to visitors.
The Hold is showcasing Catchpole's personal letters written to friends and family during her Australian exile - and they are being displayed in the UK for the first time.
In addition, the exhibition will explore how crime and punishment have changed and how the police are keeping Suffolk safe today.
Nadia Cenci, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for communities said: "It’s wonderful to welcome Margaret Catchpole’s letters back to Suffolk, where her extraordinary story began.
"‘Behind Bars’ shines a light on her courage and our county’s rich, and sometimes lawless, past. We’re proud to host this fascinating exhibition celebrating Suffolk’s unique history and heritage."
The exhibition is suitable for all ages.
For more information, visit suffolkarchives.co.uk.
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