Eastern State Penitentiary in Philly was the first prison of its kind in the world. It opened its gates in 1829 and featured an all-solitary-confinement system based upon the Quaker principle that everyone, including the most hardened criminals, possesses an “inner light,” which is revealed through thoughtful, uninterrupted meditation. This approach was thought to be more humane (and sanitary) than conventional systems. In 1913, after several prisoners went insane and committed unspeakable acts of violence (mostly upon themselves), the solitary confinement system was abandoned. The facility stopped housing prisoners in 1971, and remains in a state of ruin today.
I took this crazy photo in one of the cellblocks. It almost captures the building’s dark, torturous history. If you’re in Philly and looking for something to do besides drink Yuengling (delicious) and eat cheesesteaks (Pat’s beats Geno’s), this is a super cool tourist spot off the beaten path.
I went there a few months ago. I took a million pictures and they all came out looking creepy as hell. Thought it was cool how this fortress of a place is sitting right in the middle of a totally urbanized area but when you’re inside, because of the walls you forget your in a modern city.
By the way, next time you’re in Philly, try a roast pork sandwich from Dinic’s in Reading Terminal. They blow any cheesesteak out of the water.
I know if I ever go to the penitentiary, I’ll be bringing the cheesesteak with me.
I’m no amateur, Kevin. Not only did I try a roast pork sandwich from Dinic’s (for breakfast, no less), I accompanied my roast pork with a BBQ Beef sandwich, and then proceeded to walk the 3 mile round trip to and from Eastern State… in December.
Wow, here I am thinking I’m giving you some inside information when not only did you already know aboout the delight that is Dinic’s but you one-upped or even three-upped me by turning a casual sandwich tasting into an all out Meat Marathon. Well done.
How was the BBQ beef by the way? It was like Sophie’s choice for me trying to decide between that and the Roast Pork.
BBQ beef was great, but stick with the pork. A friend of mine went to Philly for 2 days a few weeks ago and had the roast pork for breakfast both days. Now that’s hardcore.
BTW, I’m taking a trip to Chitown in May, any fooding, boozing, or recreating suggestions there?