BOISE — The Old Idaho Penitentiary has seen plenty of criminals inside its walls. It has also been the site of a possible haunting, an inspiration for poets and the source of fundraising for schoolchildren and the hungry alike.
The Idaho Press-Tribune asked Amber Beierle, the education specialist and visitor services coordinator for the Old Idaho Penitentiary, what the historic building has in store for visitors.
IPT: Tell us a little bit about the history of the Old Idaho Penitentiary.
OIP: In 1870, contracted workers completed construction on the first building at the Idaho Territorial Prison. Two years later in March 1872, the first 11 inmates arrived on site. After statehood in 1890, the site officially became the Idaho State Penitentiary. Open for 101 years, more than 13,000 inmates came through the doors of the penitentiary. Closed in December 1973, the “Old Pen,” as it was soon referred to by locals, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. The Old Idaho Penitentiary welcomes over 40,000 visitors every year, year-round.
IPT: What will visitors find when they arrive?
OIP: Visitors enter for their tour at the Administration Buildings (1894). They can watch a brief informational video about the site, enjoy a self-guided tour, or check for guided tour times in advance. Four cellblocks are open for visitors to glimpse the history of social justice in Idaho. Punishment cells known as “Siberia” and “The Cooler” are also open for viewing. The four-and-a-half-acre site even offers a bonus museum inside the prison walls. The J. Curtis Earl Weapons Exhibit displays hundred of weapons, including Bronze Age spear heads, a Gatling gun, medieval swords, Thompson machine guns and much more.
IPT: What makes the Old Idaho Penitentiary unique?
OIP: It is one of the best preserved examples of social justice in Idaho and the West. The “Old Pen” is one of only four territorial prisons open to the public in the United States. Visitors can go in nearly every building and tour inside 140 years of history. Most everyone will not experience prison firsthand; our site offers a rare glimpse into prisons and their history.
IPT: What artifacts really stand out?
OIP: We have several artifacts on display. Besides the buildings, wall and site itself, the most interesting artifacts include the Oregon Boot and a hand-carved cane made of animal horns. The Oregon Boot was a leg restraint. The doughnut-shaped item was secured to the boot of an inmate to prevent escape and for punishment. Weighing in at around 20 pounds, it was quite effective. The cane was made by an inmate and is an intricate display of hobby work.
IPT: What amenities are available?
OIP: Guided tours are available every Saturday and Sunday at 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Special events are listed on our Facebook page and website. We have events nearly every month, including our annual Frightened Felons Halloween Event, Summer Second Friday Series, Caged Inspiration Poetry Contest and much more.
IPT: What should visitors bring with them or remember when touring the Old Idaho Penitentiary?
OIP: Dress for a mostly outdoor experience and wear comfortable shoes. This is a historic site, so observe all site rules and be respectful. Ask us a question!
IPT: How do you get there from Nampa?
OIP: Take Interstate 84 to the Broadway exit. From Broadway, turn right onto Warm Springs Avenue.
After approximately two miles, take a left onto Old Penitentiary Road.
IPT: Do you have any special events coming up?
OIP: n January: Make Hunger History — 1/2 off admission in January when you bring in two canned food items.
Jan. 10: “Escaping Hunger, Fueling Field Trips” Celebrity Lock-Up event — Local celebrities will be locked up and will need your help to make bail and help fund field trips.
Feb. 14: “Romancing the Pen” — Open late Valentine’s Day, this special exhibit is about all the wrong things done in the name of love.