38 Facts About Eastern State Penitentiary

The 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 stories and groundbreaking innovations.

1. Opened in 1829, Eastern State Penitentiary was designed to reform rather than punish inmates.
2. The prison was one of the first to implement the "Pennsylvania System," which emphasized solitary confinement.
3. Architect John Haviland designed the penitentiary with a unique radial floor plan, resembling a wagon wheel.
4. At its peak, the prison housed over 1,700 inmates.
5. The penitentiary was operational for 142 years before closing in 1971.

Famous Inmates

Eastern State Penitentiary housed many notorious criminals throughout its history. Some of these inmates have left a lasting legacy.

6. Al Capone, the infamous gangster, was incarcerated here in 1929.
7. Capone's cell was furnished with luxurious items, including a radio and fine furniture.
8. Willie Sutton, a notorious bank robber, was another famous inmate who attempted several escapes.
9. Pep "The Cat-Murdering Dog" was a Labrador Retriever sentenced to life for allegedly killing the governor's cat.
10. Victor "Babe" Andreoli, a member of the Philadelphia crime family, also served time at Eastern State.

Architectural Innovations

The design and construction of Eastern State Penitentiary were groundbreaking for its time. The prison's architecture influenced many other facilities worldwide.

11. The 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 individual exercise yards to ensure complete isolation.
14. The prison featured central heating and flush toilets, rare amenities in the 19th century.
15. The massive stone walls were 30 feet high and 12 feet thick at the base.

Life Inside the Penitentiary

Life inside Eastern State Penitentiary was harsh and isolating. The prison's strict rules and conditions were designed to encourage reflection and penitence.

16. Inmates were required to wear hoods when outside their cells to prevent communication.
17. Prisoners spent 23 hours a day in their cells, with one hour for exercise in a private yard.
18. Meals were delivered through small feeding slots in the cell doors.
19. Inmates were not allowed to have any contact with the outside world, including letters or visits.
20. The prison had a strict silence policy, prohibiting inmates from speaking to each other.

Notable Escapes

Despite its high walls and strict security, there were several daring escape attempts from Eastern State Penitentiary.

21. In 1945, 12 inmates, including Willie Sutton, escaped through a tunnel they had dug over a year.
22. The tunnel was 97 feet long and led to a nearby street.
23. In 1923, Leo Callahan and five other inmates escaped by scaling the prison walls with a makeshift ladder.
24. Callahan was the only one never recaptured.
25. In 1934, Clarence Klinedinst escaped by hiding in a delivery truck but was caught shortly after.

The Penitentiary Today

Today, Eastern State Penitentiary stands as a historic site and museum, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

26. The prison opened to the public for tours in 1994.
27. It is a National Historic Landmark, recognized for its architectural and historical significance.
28. The site hosts an annual haunted attraction called "Terror Behind the Walls."
29. The penitentiary offers guided tours, audio tours narrated by actor Steve Buscemi, and special events.
30. The museum features exhibits on the history of the prison, its inmates, and the American criminal justice system.

Paranormal Activity

Eastern State Penitentiary is also known for its paranormal activity, with many visitors and staff reporting eerie experiences.

31. The prison is considered one of the most haunted places in America.
32. Ghost hunters and paranormal investigators frequently visit the site.
33. Cellblock 12 is known for disembodied laughter and shadowy figures.
34. Cellblock 4 is said to have ghostly faces appearing on the walls.
35. The guard tower is another hotspot for paranormal activity, with reports of footsteps and whispers.

Cultural Impact

Eastern State Penitentiary has left a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring books, movies, and TV shows.

36. The prison was featured in the 1995 film "12 Monkeys" starring Bruce Willis and Brad Pitt.
37. It has appeared in numerous documentaries and TV shows, including "Ghost Hunters" and "Ghost Adventures."
38. The penitentiary has inspired several works of fiction, including the novel "The Devil's Rooming House" by M. William Phelps.

The Final Word on Eastern State Penitentiary

Eastern State Penitentiary stands as a monument to a bygone era of penal reform and architectural innovation. Its unique design and notorious inmates have cemented its place in history. From its radial layout to its haunting tales, this prison offers a glimpse into the past that’s both fascinating and chilling. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about unusual places, Eastern State has something to offer. Its legacy continues to captivate visitors, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the darker side of history. So next time you’re in Philadelphia, take a tour and see for yourself why this historic site remains so intriguing. You won’t be disappointed.