Philadelphia, PA - This may be the perfect place to start if you've ever wanted to explore a former state prison. Built in 1917 as a tuberculosis sanitorium, Cresson State Prison is a vast facility with various ancillary services. You'll find Tudor-style buildings, as well as modern industrial-style structures. Inside, you'll find chains-link fences and numbers.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Cambria County, Pennsylvania, the abandoned Cresson State Prison stands as a chilling reminder of a bygone era. With a history spanning over a century, this once bustling institution now lies in ruins, shrouded in tales of hauntings and forgotten stories.
A Rich and Troubled History:
The Cresson State Prison, originally established as the Cresson Tuberculosis Sanatorium in 1913, underwent a series of transformations over the years. It served as a state hospital before ultimately becoming a medium-security prison for male inmates in 1987. However, due to rising maintenance costs and the facility's aging infrastructure, the prison closed its doors in 2013, leaving behind a haunting legacy.
Unveiling the Past: Self-Guided Tours:
While the prison is no longer operational, its eerie allure continues to attract visitors seeking a glimpse into its troubled past. Self-guided tours allow you to explore the crumbling remnants of the prison, including cell blocks, administrative buildings, and recreational areas. As you wander through the empty corridors and decaying rooms, you can't help but feel a sense of unease and wonder about the lives that were once lived within these walls.
Haunted Tales and Ghostly Encounters:
Cresson State Prison has earned a reputation as one of Pennsylvania's most haunted locations. Many visitors and paranormal investigators have reported chilling experiences, including disembodied voices, unexplained noises, and ghostly apparitions. Some even claim to have captured evidence of paranormal activity through photographs and recordings.
Exploring the Cresson Sanatorium:
Before its transformation into a prison, the Cresson Sanatorium was a place of both hope and despair. Tuberculosis patients sought treatment in its sprawling complex, hoping to recover from the deadly disease. Today, the remnants of the sanatorium, including a cemetery, a crypt, and abandoned buildings, offer a glimpse into the lives of those who lived and died within its walls.
Preserving the Past: The Cresson Sanatorium Website:
Chuck Felton, a former patient at the Cresson Sanatorium, has dedicated himself to preserving the institution's history through a fascinating website. With the help of photographer David Solomon and videographer Paul Ruggieri, Felton has created a digital archive filled with personal stories, photographs, and videos that offer a unique perspective on the sanatorium's legacy.
A Haunting Destination:
The abandoned Cresson State Prison is more than just a collection of crumbling buildings; it's a window into a complex and often unsettling past. Whether you're drawn to its historical significance, its reputation for paranormal activity, or simply the eerie beauty of its decaying structures, Cresson State Prison offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
