Did you know about the oldest prison in the United States? The Eastern State Penitentiary’s history is chock full of interesting stories and dark surprises.
In fact, an exhibit by Bria Page, a researcher at Rutgers University, uncovers the stories of nearly 300 children and teens, as young as 11 years old, who were locked up at Eastern State.1
Apart from that disturbing truth, here are additional facts about America’s first penitentiary.
1. Construction & Opening
Built between 1822 and 1836, Eastern State Penitentiary was designed with a revolutionary radial floor plan, where cellblocks extended like spokes from a central hub. It opened its doors in 1829.
2. First Actual Penitentiary
Eastern State Penitentiary holds the distinction of being the first institution to adopt the term “penitentiary,” signifying a place for introspection and remorse.
The prison’s core mission was to encourage inmates to repent for their crimes through solitary confinement and reflection.
3. Panopticon Architecture
Eastern State Penitentiary’s innovative design, resembling a wheel with spokes, is called a “panopticon.” This layout allowed a single guard in the central hub to observe all cell blocks simultaneously, maximizing surveillance and control.
4. Embodiment of the Pennsylvania System
Renowned architect John Haviland brought to life the revolutionary “Pennsylvania System” at Eastern State Penitentiary. This system, emphasizing isolation and introspection, guided the prison’s design and operational philosophy, with the aim of fostering genuine remorse in inmates.
5. Religious Influence
Religion played a significant role in the penitentiary’s early years.
Each cell had a Bible, and inmates were expected to spend their days in prayer and reflection. This focus on spiritual redemption aimed to reform prisoners’ characters and reduce recidivism.
6. Notable Inmates
Eastern State housed numerous notorious criminals, including bank robber Willie Sutton and Al Capone. Capone’s cell, famously outfitted with rugs, furniture, and a radio, stands as a testament to the era’s corruption and disparities.
7. The Silent System
Eastern State’s solitary confinement regime was known as the “Silent System.” Inmates were hooded when moved outside their cells to prevent communication and maintain absolute isolation. This system was highly controversial and eventually deemed inhumane.
8. Medical Experiments
Eastern State was a site for controversial medical experiments in the early 20th century.
Inmates were subjected to various treatments, including malaria experiments and lobotomies, often without their consent. These practices raised ethical concerns and highlighted the vulnerability of prisoners to exploitation.
9. National Historic Landmark
Eastern State Penitentiary achieved the prestigious designation of National Historic Landmark in 1965, solidifying its place as a pivotal site in the evolution of American correctional practices and architectural innovation.
10. Escape Attempts
Despite the high walls and strict security, Eastern State saw its fair share of escape attempts. Some were successful, while others ended tragically. The most famous escape involved a group of inmates who dug a tunnel under the prison walls in 1945.
11. Prison Labor
Prisoners engaged in various forms of labor, including shoemaking, weaving, and carpentry.
The goods they produced were sold to help fund the prison’s operation. This practice raised questions about the exploitation of prison labor, a debate that continues today.
12. The Fall from Grace
As the 20th century progressed, Eastern State’s reputation declined. Overcrowding, deteriorating conditions, and staff corruption tarnished its image.
The prison’s closure in 1971 marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in its history.
13. Preservation & Rebirth
In the 1990s, efforts began to preserve and stabilize the historic prison. Today, it operates as a museum, offering guided tours that explore its architecture, art, history, and the social implications of incarceration.
14. Backdrop for the Silver Screen
Eastern State Penitentiary’s haunting ambiance and historic architecture have made it a sought-after filming location, featured in a variety of productions like “12 Monkeys” and “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.”
15. Halloween Haunt
Eastern State Penitentiary is renowned for its annual Halloween Nights attraction, where the prison’s spooky atmosphere and dark history are used to create a terrifyingly immersive experience.
Eastern State Penitentiary is a place where architectural innovation met with harsh realities, where hope for reform clashed with the grim realities of punishment.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
