Take a tour of the Montana State Prison

Take a tour of the Montana State Prison

If you’re interested in the history of the Old West and want to learn about the harsh realities of life behind bars in the 19th and early 20th centuries, then a tour of the Montana State Prison is a must-see attraction. Located in Deer Lodge, Montana, the prison operated for over 100 years and was one of the oldest functioning prisons in the United States until its closure in 1979. Today, visitors can tour the facility and learn about the prison’s history and the lives of the inmates who called it home.

Here are some of the things you can expect to see and do on a tour of the Montana State Prison:

Explore the Cellblocks

The prison’s cellblocks are the most impressive part of the tour. Visitors can walk through the narrow corridors and see where the prisoners slept, ate, and spent their days. The cells are small and cramped, and it’s hard to imagine living in such a confined space for years on end. You’ll also see the punishment cells, where unruly inmates were kept in complete darkness and isolation for days at a time.

Visit the Gallows

One of the most chilling parts of the tour is a visit to the gallows, where 75 prisoners were executed between 1878 and 1954. The trapdoor and noose are still in place, and visitors can stand on the spot where the hangings took place. It’s a sobering reminder of the harsh realities of life in the prison.

See the Exhibits

In addition to the cellblocks and the gallows, the prison also features several exhibits that showcase the prison’s history and the lives of its inmates. You’ll see displays of old prison uniforms and artifacts from the prison’s past, as well as exhibits that explore the lives of famous inmates, such as convicted murderer Lee Smart.

Watch a Live Demonstration

For an even more immersive experience, visitors can watch a live demonstration of prison life. Actors dressed in period costumes will take you through a day in the life of a prisoner, showing you the routines and tasks they had to perform every day. It’s a great way to get a sense of what life was really like inside the walls of the prison.

Take a Ghost Tour

If you’re feeling brave, you can take a ghost tour of the prison. Many visitors and staff members have reported seeing and hearing strange things in the cellblocks, and some believe the prison is haunted by the spirits of former inmates. The ghost tour takes you through the prison after dark, and you’ll hear stories of the strange occurrences that have been reported over the years.

In conclusion, a visit to the Montana State Prison is a unique and fascinating experience that offers a glimpse into the history of the Old West and the harsh realities of life behind bars. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for something different to do, the prison tour is definitely worth checking out. So if you’re ever in Deer Lodge, be sure to make a stop at the Montana State Prison and see for yourself what life was like for the inmates who called it home.