In early 2020, Albert Jones, a death row inmate at San Quentin, found himself facing a new and terrifying threat – a mysterious respiratory illness that was spreading rapidly throughout the prison. As COVID-19 swept through the crowded cells, hundreds of inmates fell ill, including Jones. Despite the chaos and fear that gripped the prison, Jones kept detailed journals chronicling his experience, from his anxiety over catching the virus to his agonizing recovery. His poignant reflections offer a rare glimpse into life on death row during a global pandemic.
A Seasoned Inmate’s Journey
Albert Jones, now 60, was sentenced to death in 1996 for the brutal double murder of an elderly couple during a robbery in their Mead Valley home. Despite losing an appeal of his conviction, he maintains his innocence and continues to work with his attorneys on new grounds for appeal. Over the years, Jones has embraced a sense of purpose in prison, documenting community life on San Quentin’s death row through writing and art. His resilience and creativity have earned him recognition as a model prisoner, even meeting with Governor Gavin Newsom to showcase his efforts towards rehabilitation within the prison system.
Jones’ writings, which include a memoir titled “I Survived COVID-19” and two collections of prison recipes, offer a rich tapestry of his experiences behind bars. His work not only sheds light on the challenges of life on death row but also reflects his personal growth and pursuit of redemption. Jones’ dedication to leaving a legacy for his daughter and grandchildren underscores his desire to be remembered as more than just a prisoner – as a human being who made mistakes and seeks to make amends.
An Unprecedented Archive
Now, Jones’ writings and personal items are poised to reach a wider audience than ever before. A Sonoma County bookseller, Ben Kinmont, sees Jones’ collection as a unique and valuable insight into one of America’s most notorious cell blocks. Kinmont is showcasing Jones’ work at the New York International Antiquarian Book Fair, where curators, collectors, and researchers will have the opportunity to explore this one-of-a-kind archive. The collection, including Jones’ books, personal items, and even a makeshift “prison eye,” offers a glimpse into the humanity and resilience of those living on death row.
Kinmont, who specializes in historical works about food and wine, was initially intrigued by Jones’ first cookbook, “Our Last Meals?” The cookbook, which features recipes from death row inmates and emphasizes the value of sharing meals together, struck a chord with Kinmont’s exploration of food and community. Jones’ recipes, crafted with limited resources in a prison-sanctioned electric pot, reflect a deep sense of care and connection among inmates who assert their humanity through the act of preparing and sharing food.
Ethical Dilemmas and Personal Reflections
While Jones’ archive represents a significant cultural and historical artifact, it also raises ethical questions about prisoners benefiting from their work behind bars. Jones’ conviction for a heinous crime has sparked outrage from the family members of his victims, who question his right to profit from his writings. Despite the controversy, Jones remains steadfast in his belief that his work can provide financial support for his family and leave a lasting legacy for his grandchildren.
As Jones prepares for the sale of his archive in New York, he hopes to use the proceeds to establish a trust fund for his grandchildren and help his daughter purchase a home. His desire to give back and support his family underscores his commitment to finding redemption and purpose in the face of adversity. While the sale of his archive may spark debate and criticism, Jones remains resolute in his belief that his story, and the stories of those on death row, deserve to be heard and preserved for future generations.
A Legacy of Resilience and Creativity
In the midst of uncertainty and controversy, Albert Jones continues to forge ahead with his next project – a book about his prison transfer out of San Quentin. Titled “Free at Last, free at Last. But I’m Still Condemned,” the book promises to offer a poignant reflection on Jones’ journey towards redemption and freedom, despite the lingering shadow of his past. Jones’ resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination serve as a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for growth and transformation, even in the darkest of circumstances.
