Felony Quotes
This was passed after the Civil War had ended---during Reconstruction. Many states had similar laws until the Supreme Court challenges to them in the latter half of the 20th century.
Draft language is sometimes attributed to Senator George F. Hoar.
See {642189} where Sherman explained some of the reasons for the law.
The register was originally created so that people could be warned about the pedophiles who had served their prison time and were now living in a community. They are also banned from living close to schools, parks and other locations where children might gather. Then rapists were added. This in turn covered statutory rape. And that covered an 18 year old having consensual sex with a 15 year old who may have lied about his/her age.