Exploring the Dark History of Old Idaho Penitentiary in Boise, Idaho

The Haunting Walls that Hold Secrets: Old Idaho Penitentiary

The Old Idaho Penitentiary, located in the heart of Boise, Idaho, is a living testament to the dark history of crime and punishment in the early days of the state. With its eerie architecture and chilling tales, this iconic landmark fascinates history enthusiasts and ghost hunters alike.

A Glimpse into the Past

Established in 1870, the Old Idaho Penitentiary was built to solve one of Idaho's most pressing issues: overcrowded jails. The prison's imposing sandstone walls housed some of the West's most dangerous criminals for over a century, finally closing its doors in 1973. Today, it stands as a museum, showcasing the harsh realities of life behind bars.

The Life Inside

Entering the Old Idaho Penitentiary is like stepping into a time capsule. Visitors can explore the Cell House, where the prisoners were confined to their small, windowless rooms. These cells tell stories of despair and desperation, leaving a lingering sense of claustrophobia in the air. The gallows and solitary confinement cells serve as chilling reminders of the harsh punishments inflicted upon the inmates.

Old Idaho Penitentary in Boise, Idaho: Old Farts Cheap Fun in Boise, ID (Great Places We Visited During the Pandemic)

by DACO(Kindle Edition)

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The Famous Inmates

Over the years, the Old Idaho Penitentiary housed notorious criminals who became the stuff of legend. One such inmate was Raymond Allen Snowden, a convicted murderer who was executed by hanging in 1957. His spirit is said to haunt the gallows, forever seeking redemption.

Another infamous inmate was Harry Orchard, a convicted assassin who admitted to the assassination of Idaho's former Governor, Frank Steunenberg, in 1905. Orchard's dark past and the details of his heinous crimes continue to captivate the imagination of visitors.

Ghosts of the Past

Visitors and staff of the Old Idaho Penitentiary have reported numerous ghostly encounters over the years. Shadowy figures, disembodied voices, and unexplained phenomena have been experienced in various areas of the prison. These eerie occurrences have led paranormal investigators to label the penitentiary as one of the most haunted places in the Pacific Northwest.

Exploring Old Idaho Penitentiary Today

Today, the Old Idaho Penitentiary offers a variety of tours and events for those seeking a spine-chilling adventure. The popular Paranormal Investigation Tours allow brave souls to delve into the supernatural realm under the guidance of expert paranormal investigators. Visitors can also participate in Escape Room experiences that challenge their wits and skills to solve mysteries within the penitentiary walls.

For history enthusiasts, the museum showcases an impressive collection of artifacts, including inmate art, historical photographs, and displays detailing the everyday life of prisoners and corrections officers in the past. Educational programs are also available for students, offering a unique opportunity to learn about Idaho's history through the lens of crime and punishment.

The Old Idaho Penitentiary stands as a chilling reminder of Idaho's dark past. Its haunting corridors and tragic stories continue to attract curious visitors from near and far. Whether you are fascinated by history, intrigued by the paranormal, or simply enjoy a good ghost story, a visit to the Old Idaho Penitentiary promises an unforgettable experience that will send shivers down your spine.

Old Idaho Penitentary in Boise, Idaho: Old Farts Cheap Fun in Boise, ID (Great Places We Visited During the Pandemic)

by DACO(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5260 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	14 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Shockingly, we never expected to experience a pandemic during our lifetime, yet here we are! Realizing that life might be shorter than we thought, it occurred to us to take a road trip. We are in that Golden Age where are able to afford to travel a little bit, but still poor enough we have to watch our pennies! I'm personally terrified to fly, so these adventures from our various road trips! We had a lot of fun, great food and a lot of excersize walking.