35 Facts About Eastern State Penitentiary

History of Eastern State Penitentiary

Eastern State Penitentiary, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is one of the most famous prisons in the world. Its history is filled with fascinating facts that reveal its significance and impact on the penal system.

1. Opened in 1829, Eastern State Penitentiary was designed to reform rather than punish inmates.
2. Architect John Haviland designed the prison with a unique radial floor plan.
3. The prison was one of the first to implement solitary confinement as a form of rehabilitation.
4. Charles Dickens visited the penitentiary in 1842 and criticized its solitary confinement practices.
5. The prison's construction cost $780,000, making it one of the most expensive buildings of its time.

Notable Inmates

Eastern State Penitentiary housed some of the most notorious criminals in American history. These inmates' stories add to the prison's mystique and intrigue.

6. Al Capone, the infamous gangster, was incarcerated here in 1929.
7. Capone's cell was furnished with fine furniture, rugs, and a radio, unlike other inmates' cells.
8. Willie Sutton, a notorious bank robber, attempted to escape the prison in 1945.
9. Pep "The Cat-Murdering Dog" was sentenced to life imprisonment for allegedly killing a cat.
10. Victor "Babe" Andreoli, a member of the Philadelphia crime family, served time at Eastern State.

Architectural Features

The design and architecture of Eastern State Penitentiary were groundbreaking and influenced prison construction worldwide.

11. The prison's radial design allowed guards to monitor all cell blocks from a central location.
12. Each cell had a skylight, referred to as the "Eye of God," to remind inmates of divine oversight.
13. Cells were equipped with central heating and running water, which was rare for the time.
14. The prison featured a 30-foot high wall surrounding the complex for security.
15. Gothic-style architecture gave the penitentiary an imposing and intimidating appearance.

Life Inside the Prison

Daily life at Eastern State Penitentiary was harsh and regimented, reflecting the strict discipline imposed on inmates.

16. Inmates spent 23 hours a day in their cells, with one hour for exercise.
17. Exercise yards were small, individual spaces to prevent communication between prisoners.
18. Meals were delivered through a small slot in each cell door.
19. Inmates were required to wear hoods when outside their cells to prevent them from seeing other prisoners.
20. The prison had a strict silence policy, forbidding inmates from speaking to each other.

Escapes and Riots

Despite its high security, Eastern State Penitentiary experienced several escape attempts and riots throughout its history.

21. In 1923, a group of inmates tunneled out of the prison but were quickly recaptured.
22. The 1945 escape attempt by Willie Sutton and 11 other inmates involved a 97-foot tunnel.
23. A major riot occurred in 1933, resulting in significant damage to the prison.
24. In 1961, inmates staged a protest over poor living conditions, leading to reforms.
25. The prison's high walls and vigilant guards made successful escapes rare.

Closure and Legacy

Eastern State Penitentiary eventually closed, but its legacy continues to influence modern penal systems and attract visitors.

26. The prison closed in 1971 after 142 years of operation.
27. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965.
28. The site was abandoned for years, falling into disrepair before restoration efforts began.
29. Today, the penitentiary operates as a museum, offering tours and educational programs.
30. The annual "Terror Behind the Walls" haunted attraction draws thousands of visitors each year.

Cultural Impact

Eastern State Penitentiary has left a lasting mark on popular culture, inspiring numerous books, films, and television shows.

31. The prison was featured in the 1995 film "12 Monkeys," starring Bruce Willis and Brad Pitt.
32. It has appeared in several episodes of the TV show "Ghost Hunters."
33. The penitentiary inspired the setting for the video game "Batman: Arkham Asylum."
34. Numerous books and documentaries have been produced about the prison's history and inmates.
35. Eastern State Penitentiary remains a popular subject for paranormal investigations and ghost tours.

The Final Glimpse of Eastern State Penitentiary

Eastern State Penitentiary stands as a haunting reminder of America's prison history. Its unique architecture, notorious inmates, and innovative design make it a fascinating subject. From its radial layout to the stories of Al Capone and Pep the Dog, every corner holds a piece of history. The prison's influence on modern correctional facilities can't be overstated. Visiting this historic site offers a glimpse into the past, shedding light on the evolution of the penal system. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, Eastern State Penitentiary provides a captivating experience. Its preservation efforts ensure that future generations can learn from its storied past. So next time you're in Philadelphia, take a tour and step back in time. You'll leave with a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges of prison reform.