The Old Stone Jail was the cornerstone for Cambria County’s new prison in 1872. The large “Castle-Like” section of light-colored sandstone and surrounding stone wall gives the prison a Gothic Revival style.
The jail had 27 cells, 15 x 8 in size, cramming 123 men behind the stone walls making the prison overcrowded. It wasn’t until 1911 when an annex was added to house an additional 52 cells to accommodate the influx of prisoners.
The prison had gallows where 11 men were executed by hanging and the last hanging occurred in 1909. The one man who escaped his execution in 1884 was Michael “Old Smitty” Smith. He mysteriously disappeared. Rumors say he had a sinister death inside the jail walls.
Step into Old Smitty’s jail cell and suddenly feel the chills of his presence. Listen closely for the unexplained whispers and sounds echoing from one cell to the next.
The Old Stone Jail may be closed but the shadowy figures linger around every corner, watching to make themselves known to everyone who crosses their path. Maybe if you’re lucky they will reach out and touch or grab your arm to get your attention.
Now, don’t be alarmed if you hear clanking chains as you make your way around the prison. These are the souls of the prisoners trying to break free from the repeated hostile torture.
If you dare, make your way down to the basement to experience all the gruesome murders as the hair on your arms stands on edge and goosebumps goes up your spine. Footsteps are heard all around and the sense of being followed.
Join us as we are locked down amongst the sounds of the desperate cries of those who never escaped the prison’s grasp.
