Travel South Magazine Travel South low (kasey daleo's conflicted copy 20 | Page 197

ia
West Virgin ry
Penitentia
Penitentiary
g raveyard
THE BEST OF
WEST VIRGINIA
Like all of our southern states, West Virginia makes
for an interesting, fun-filled visit, with that extra
character and charm we love so much.
However, unrelated to the stereotypi-
cal charm one has perhaps grown ac-
customed to, this West Virginia stop
could be considered anything but
charming. with Gothic concepts, so the sheer
look of the building is haunting
enough, but knowing that is was a for-
mer prison might make it worse for
some visitors.
Peculiarly voted as a top tourist desti-
nation, the West Virginia Penitentiary is
in full swing during spring with visitors
from all over that are wanting to take a
tour and catch a glimpse of the mas-
sive and daunting structure, and
maybe even a ghost or two. Located
in Moundsville, the structure was built From April through to November, you
can secure your spot in a tour that will
walk you through the building, con-
structed in the 1800s. The prison
opened its doors in 1876, and in 1995,
the final prisoner left. Between those
years, more than 1,000 executions
took place, along with numerous riots,
escapes, fires, and beatings. The cells
are 5 feet by 7 feet and the word
“claustrophobic” is an understatement,
even when you’re standing in the mid-
dle of one. Stay out of the north end if
you’re not up for a fright, as the north
end is where the executions by means
of hanging or electrocution, took
place.
The West Virginia Penitentiary offers
everything from group tours during the
day, to overnight private paranormal
tours. Take a shot at the 60-minute es-
cape room within the prison, or roam
the halls all by yourself on Thriller
Thursdays. It all depends on the level
of spookiness you are trying to
achieve, and what you would like to
walk away with, but nevertheless, this
attraction is a favorite amongst tourists
traveling to the Mountain State.
Travel South | Spring 2018 | 195