Inmates still unload coffins as was done when these photos were taken decades ago. But nowadays the inmate crews return to Rikers when the day's work is done.

Baby coffins represent about 45 per cent of interments and are placed 1,000 to a common plot. Adult coffins are placed 150 to a common plot.

The location of each coffin is charted on a schematic so it can be found if disinterment is undertaken. It is not attempted if burial took place more than l0 years prior.

Usually, after being held 10 years, the records regarding particular burials are turned over by the Correction Dept. to the Municipal Archives where they are available on microfilm for family history researchers.

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