The prisoners are governed largely on the theory that “Nothing so begets vice as idleness.”  During the last few years the convict labor has been engaged on the farm, in quarrying rock for the buildings of the institution, in erecting a new cell house and a woman’s ward, and in digging and walling up a large well which has given an abundant supply of pure water.  Thus the institution is put as far as possible on a self-sustaining basis.

Soldiers’ Home.—­The Soldiers’ Home was established by the State Legislature in 1893 and located on a tract of forty acres of land about three miles west of Boise in Ada County.  The purpose of the institution, as suggested by its name, is to provide a comfortable home for the honorably discharged soldiers, sailors, and marines who served in the Mexican, the Civil, or the Spanish-American wars; or for any member of the State National Guard disabled while on duty.

The home here provided for the old veterans is surrounded by all conveniences necessary to make their declining years pleasant and comfortable.  The rooms are heated by steam and lighted with electricity, and they have a bountiful supply of wholesome food.  A hospital is maintained in connection with the institution, and the inmates have the constant care of a skilled physician if necessary.

It is the aim of the institution to be as nearly self-supporting as possible; regular appropriations for its maintenance are received from the State and National Governments in about equal proportions.