Oregon Prison Association Records, circa 1913-1960

Originally organized in 1903 as the Oregon Prisoner's Aid Society, the organization's objectives were, first of all, "to awaken and enlist public sympathy in behalf of the worthy ex-prisoner." Also included was the desire to find employment for ex-prisoners, to promote prison improvement, to organize the efforts of local prisoners' aid societies, to influence prisoner-related legislation, and to disseminate information on prison issues. In 1929 the name was changed to the Oregon Prison Association. Among the Association's early accomplishments were the abolition of torture-like punishments, the promotion of a juvenile court system, the creation of the Probation Commission in 1931, and the establishment of the Western Parole and Probation Association. Among those associated with the organization was its long-time superintendent, Rev. W. G. Maclaren, who served from 1911 to 1938.

By the 1940s the Association's focus had shifted to the study of the causes of crime and its prevention through community programs. Its new constitution, adopted in 1945, had as its objectives such things as research, dissemination of information, encouraging the improvement of parole and probation regulations, the provision of guidance to families of prisoners, and serving as a conduit for charitable funds directed to prison-related activities. By the 1950s the organization had instituted a program for visiting jails and correctional institutions throughout Oregon in order to conduct inspections and to make recommendations on improving facilities. Of special concern were issues relating to juveniles. In general, the Association stressed prevention rather than punishment and advocated the abolition of the death penalty. It attracted the attention of many prominent Oregonians who served on its board, including Senators Wayne Morse (in the late 1940s) and Monroe Sweetland (late 1950s). Tom McCall, future governor, was the organization's president from 1951 to 1953.

By the end of the 1950s a number of problems had arisen in the relations between the staff and the board of the organization. Apparently the Association ceased to function after 1960.