The Wyoming State Penitentiary aka “The Old Pen” in Rawlins, Wyoming was in use from 1901 – 1981. It is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offers must-see guided tours that take visitors through three cell blocks, the cafeteria, the grounds and the Death House.
During the tour, you will discover the science behind the water-operated “Julien Gallows” hanging method and have the opportunity to sit in a gas chamber where 5 men met their fate. You will also have the sobering opportunity to contemplate how difficult it must have been to be incarcerated in a bleak facility where there was no running water, heating or cooling system for all but the last three years of the prison’s operation. There is also a prison museum on site with historical information, confiscated weapons and an exhibit of the movie, “Prison”, which was filmed on location in 1987.
The Wyoming State Penitentiary is well-worth every penny of the $10 we spent on a very informative and creepy guided tour. As a plus, the prison is also dog-friendly for well-behaved, leashed pets!