Eastern State Penitentiary

Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site preserves America’s first penitentiary, advancing public understanding of the criminal justice system and its impact on the lives of those affected by it, to inspire a more just future. The facility pioneered the large-scale use of solitary confinement in the early 19th century and housed approximately 85,000 people during its 142 years of operation. Today, Eastern State welcomes the public to learn about the complicated history of the building and to reflect on its legacy of justice reform.