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May 28, 2024 · Built in 1870, the Old Idaho Penitentiary is one of only four territorial prisons open to the public today. During its 101 years of operation, the site saw escapes, scandals and the effects of Boise’s transition from the “wild west” to a mid-20th century capital city.
The Old Idaho Penitentiary State Historic Site was a functional prison from 1872 to 1973 in the western United States, east of Boise, Idaho. The first building, also known as the Territorial Prison, was constructed in the Territory of Idaho in 1870; the territory was seven years old when the prison was built, a full two decades before statehood.
In 1973 the Idaho State Penitentiary closed to inmates. Now our doors are open for visitors to explore over 100 years of Idaho's unique prison history. Open year-round, visitors of the Old Idaho Penitentiary can walk through solitary confinement, cell blocks, and the gallows.
Over 13,000 prisoners served time at the Old Idaho Penitentiary between 1872 and 1973. Today, the Idaho State Historical Society offers a video presentation, self-guided tour, and gift shop on site. Exhibits, including the J. Curtis Earl Weapons Collection, are located throughout the site.
5 days ago · Curious about the history of the Old Idaho Penitentiary or planning a visit? Check here for the answers to the site’s most frequently asked questions.
Oct 8, 2021 · Women were held for crimes ranging from adultery and bigamy to providing abortions, and “inducing a girl to enter a house of prostitution.” The Old Idaho Penitentiary housed some of the country’s first-known female serial killers, including Lydia Southard.
The Old Idaho Penitentiary opened its doors in 1872 to some of the West’s most desperate criminals. Today, visitors can experience more than 100 years of Idaho’s unique prison history with a visit to solitary confinement, cell blocks, and the gallows.
The Old Idaho Penitentiary is such an amazing piece of history to visit while you are in Boise, Idaho. Take a few hours to walk the grounds and see what it was like to be an inmate in Idaho between 1872 and 1973.
Mar 9, 2019 · The Old Idaho Penitentiary operated for over 100 years as the first prison in Boise, Idaho. Over the years it has housed over 13,000 inmates, hosted 36 wardens, and was the site of numerous escapes, riots, and executions.
Mar 8, 2011 · Discover Old Idaho State Penitentiary in Boise, Idaho: Jail from the 19th century that was built by inmates.
