The Ohio State Reformatory – Mansfield Reformatory
The Ohio State Reformatory, also known as the Mansfield Reformatory, is a historic prison located in Mansfield, Ohio. It is famous for being the filming location of the 1994 movie “The Shawshank Redemption,” which starred Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman. The Ohio State Reformatory was in operation from 1896 to 1990, and today, it is open for tours, events, and as a museum.
The Ohio State Reformatory was built in 1886 as a solution to the overcrowding of state prisons and to provide a more progressive and rehabilitative approach to criminal justice. At the time, the reformatory was considered a model prison and was praised for its progressive design, including a centralized administration building, housing units that provided each prisoner with his own cell, and a range of vocational training programs.
During its 94 years of operation, the Ohio State Reformatory housed over 155,000 men and saw its fair share of violence and unrest, including riots and escapes. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the reformatory became increasingly overcrowded and underfunded, leading to numerous lawsuits and a federal court order to reduce the population. The Ohio State Reformatory was finally closed in 1990 due to inhumane conditions.
Since its closure, the Ohio State Reformatory has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who are interested in its history and connection to the famous movie “The Shawshank Redemption.” Today, the Ohio State Reformatory is a museum and events center that offers guided tours, overnight ghost hunts, and a variety of special events throughout the year.
Visitors to the Ohio State Reformatory can take a self-guided tour of the main building, including the cells, chapel, and administrative offices, as well as the housing units and recreation yard. Guided tours are also available, providing a more in-depth look at the history and architecture of the prison.
For fans of “The Shawshank Redemption,” the Ohio State Reformatory is a must-see. Visitors can see the actual filming locations used in the movie, including the parole office, the warden’s office, and the cell where Andy Dufresne, played by Tim Robbins, lived.
In addition to its historical significance, the Ohio State Reformatory is also known for its reputation as one of the most haunted locations in the United States. Visitors and staff have reported a range of paranormal activity, including unexplained noises, apparitions, and unexplained movements of objects. The prison’s dark history, including numerous deaths and instances of violence, has contributed to its reputation as a haunted site.
The Ohio State Reformatory offers several ghost tours that allow visitors to experience the prison after dark and investigate its haunted past. The tours are led by experienced paranormal investigators and include access to areas of the prison not typically open to the public, such as the basement and the roof. Participants are equipped with paranormal investigation equipment and have the opportunity to conduct their own investigations and participate in experiments to try and communicate with the spirits that are believed to haunt the reformatory.
Visitors who are interested in the paranormal can also book overnight ghost hunts, where they can spend the night in the prison and participate in investigations and experiments throughout the night. These ghost hunts are popular with paranormal enthusiasts and are often booked well in advance.
Things to Do
- Kingwood Center Gardens (1.1 miles) – A 47-acre botanical garden featuring a variety of gardens, including a rose garden, rock garden, and a formal garden.
- Mansfield Art Center (3.6 miles) – A community art center featuring a rotating selection of exhibitions, classes, and workshops.
- Ohio Bird Sanctuary (7.4 miles) – A wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the protection and care of native birds, including over 150 species of birds.
- Malabar Farm State Park (12.8 miles) – A historic farm and park that was once home to author Louis Bromfield and features hiking trails, fishing, and scenic views.
- Gorman Nature Center (13.4 miles) – A nature preserve and education center offering hiking trails, bird-watching, and educational programs.
- Richland Carrousel Park (15.1 miles) – A restored carousel and park featuring a variety of rides, games, and attractions.
