The Ohio State Reformatory was used as the fictional Shawshank Prison in New England in the movie. Make sure to take the Hollywood Meets History Tour at the Reformatory.  The warden’s office, Brooks’ hotel room, the parole board room and even the replica carving on the ceiling that reads, “Brooks was here. So was Red” are on display. The prop hole that Andy dug through his cell wall to escape is also on display as well as the prop tunnel he crawled through. Chocolate syrup, saw dust and water were in the tunnel to mimic an actual sewer pipe.  Look for replica standups of Red, Andy, Warden Norton, Heywood and Brooks inside the Reformatory for a photo opportunity!  Visit ShawshankTrail.com for information on all filming sites.

General Scoop & History: With the cornerstone laid in 1886, this castle-like prison was designed as a reformatory for young offenders. One of the top five largest castle-like structures in the USA, the Reformatory houses the world’s tallest free-standing steel cell block (6 tiers; 12 ranges, 600 cells).  Abandoned in 1990, the original cell blocks and administration areas remain intact. Motion pictures filmed on location include The Shawshank Redemption, Escape Plan 3: The Extractors, Air Force One, Harry and Walter Go To New York, Tango and Cash, and Judas and the Black Messiah. Music videos include Awake by Godsmack and Go DJ by Lil Wayne.

Haunted Testimonials & Tidbits:  There’s a guard killed in Solitary Confinement back in 1932 that still does his rounds. He’s been known to jab people with his nightstick and push guests. The 3rd floors of the administration wings are known for shadows and footsteps. The activity is always changing.

There’s not an area in the building that people haven’t experienced something over the years. Footsteps are very common. Shadow people are seen. Audible voices/whispers are common. Physical interactions like being touched, hair pulled, being grabbed/scratched, happen often.

What To Expect:  Paranormal investigations at the Ohio State Reformatory provides a unique way to experience the building’s macabre history. Most of the paranormal programs are conducted in the evening with the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide.  Investigations includes Public Ghost Hunts, Private Paranormal Investigations, Ghost Walks, and Special Paranormal Events.  Ghost hunting equipment, books, and merchandise are available through our Museum Store.

During a Ghost Hunt, you are free to roam any area of the Reformatory except those areas blocked off by “caution” tape, chains or locks. Admission includes access to the building from 7pm-3am and a late dinner of pizza and soda. Flashlights are recommended. You are on your own to investigate; there is no guide. The building contains hazards like steep steps, uneven surfaces and lead-based paint.

Seen On:  The Shawshank Redemption movie; Travel Channel’s “Ghost Adventures”, “Scariest Places on Earth” & “101 Things To Do Before You Die”. The SyFy Channel’s “Ghost Hunter’s Academy” & “Ghost Hunters”. Fox Family Channel’s “Scariest Stories on Earth”.

Public Ghost Hunts– Have you heard the dark, harrowing stories of the Historic Ohio State Reformatory? Now is the time to experience the sinister tales for yourself. Get your adrenaline pumping by exploring the 130-year-old Gothic structure with your adventurous friends. 

Ghost Walks travel through the dark halls and corridors of the Reformatory as you are taken on a 2 hour guided tour to the hot spots where reports have been made about paranormal activity. Hear about what people have experienced and the stories of murder and death that cause many to believe the prison is haunted.

Escape from Blood Prison (Halloween event):  In October.  Every Halloween the Ohio State Reformatory dares anyone to try and make it through the famous prison for their annual Halloween event.
Contact Kathy – kathy@mrps.org at the Reformatory for all paranormal investigations and events at 419-522-2644  or www.ohiostatereformatory.org.

Visit HauntedMansfield.com for information on all Haunted sites.

With the cornerstone of this unique facility laid in 1886, this castlelike prison was designed as a reformatory for young offenders. Abandoned in 1990, the original cell blocks and administration areas remain intact.

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