Bartholomew B. Purdy served in the U.S. Army.
Deputy Keeper Bartholomew Purdy suffered a fatal heart attack after responding to a fire that had intentionally been set by a female inmate inside her cell at the Harlem 5th District Prison.
The inmate had previously attempted to commit suicide by hanging and had been placed inside a secure cell as a result. She was somehow able to light a fire, which engulfed her cell and her clothing. As Keeper Purdy attempted to open the door he collapsed.
Another inmate used Keeper Purdy's keys to let himself out of the jail and he ran to the nearby police station to alert authorities.
Deputy Keeper Purdy was a U.S. Army veteran of the Civil War and had served as a deputy keeper at the prison for two years.
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In tribute
I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.
Deputy Keeper Purdy gave the New York City Department of Correction 2 years.
Thank you for your service to the East Elmhurst community. Thank you for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, brother.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
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