The Story of Ernest Harding: A Glimpse into Early 20th Century America
A Sterile Encounter in a Prison Exam Room
In a cold, sterile exam room of a 1920s New York State Prison, a doctor sits across from a prisoner named Ernest Harding. This short, stocky man, dressed in a drab prison uniform, undergoes a series of questions and tests to assess his mental state. The doctor notes his appearance and asks about his family background. Ernest's responses paint a picture of a challenging life marked by illness and loss.
The Early Life of Ernest Harding
Born on May 22, 1889, in Binghamton, New York, Ernest was the youngest of two boys. His father, Frederick Harding Sr., was a painter, and his mother, Emma Leach, was a German immigrant who worked as a domestic servant after losing her parents at a young age. Despite the promise of Binghamton, known as the 'Valley of Opportunity' due to its booming industry, Ernest's family struggled with poverty.
Childhood Struggles and First Brush with the Law
Ernest's early years were marred by poverty and lack of proper clothing, which often kept him from school. Despite his struggles, he was energetic and loved sports. However, his troubles began around the time his father died of pneumonia in 1900. Ernest's first arrest came in 1903 for stealing a bicycle, marking the start of a series of incarcerations that would define his life.
Time at the State Industrial School
Sent to the State Industrial School in Rochester, New York, Ernest spent formative years in a reformatory that had a history of exploiting young inmates for labor. By the time Ernest arrived, the school had rebranded itself as a trade school, offering education in trades like bricklaying and farming. Despite these reforms, the environment was far from ideal.
Attempts to Rebuild and Further Arrests
After his release from the Industrial School, Ernest returned to Binghamton and found work at the Endicott-Johnson Shoe Factory. His life seemed to stabilize briefly as he supported his widowed mother alongside his brother, Fred. However, Ernest's nomadic and adventurous spirit often led him into trouble. His love for theater, vaudeville, and boxing matches contrasted with the societal expectations of the time.
Major Crimes and Imprisonment
In 1910, Ernest's criminal activities escalated to grand larceny when he and an accomplice sold a horse and wagon they had hired for a delivery job. Despite a brief release on a promise of good behavior, Ernest was arrested again in 1911 for stealing from his boarding house. This time, he was sentenced to the Elmira Reformatory, known for its progressive yet rigorous approach to inmate rehabilitation.
Life at the Elmira Reformatory
The Elmira Reformatory focused on psychological treatment and rehabilitation rather than punishment. Ernest, who had struggled academically, became an avid reader, enjoying works by authors like Alger and Twain. Despite these positive changes, Ernest repeatedly violated his parole, leading to multiple returns to prison.
The Elusive Freedom and Final Parole Violation
Ernest's attempts to reintegrate into society were fraught with difficulties. After being paroled again, he found work and attempted to live with his brother, Fred, but familial tensions made this arrangement short-lived. Eventually, Ernest violated his parole once more and disappeared, evading the authorities for a time.
Conclusion
Ernest Harding's story is a vivid illustration of the complexities and challenges faced by individuals in early 20th century America. His life, marked by poverty, loss, and repeated brushes with the law, provides a lens through which we can understand the broader societal issues of the time. Despite his struggles, Ernest's resilience and the occasional glimpses of stability and joy in his life highlight the enduring human spirit. His story, though often tragic, is a crucial part of the tapestry of American history.
