Old Idaho Penitentiary Site, History museum in Boise, United States
The Old Idaho Penitentiary is a prison museum located on a sprawling grounds with roughly 30 buildings, including cell blocks, a gallows, and an exhibition center. The grounds show the physical layout of a prison system and allow visitors to explore the different areas of the institution.
The prison was established in 1872 as a territorial facility during Idaho's settlement era and remained in operation for over a century until closing in 1973. During this time, Idaho transitioned from frontier territory to statehood, and the institution reflected these broader changes.
The prison tells the stories of those held within through personal items and photographs that show daily life behind the walls. These objects help visitors understand how people lived and worked in this institution.
Visitors can explore the grounds at their own pace on self-guided routes, with hours varying by season. It is wise to wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds are extensive and require considerable walking.
The grounds house a weapons collection with hundreds of pieces from different eras, ranging from medieval arms to firearms from World War II. This collection reveals a surprising aspect of the museum's history that extends beyond the prison theme.
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