Eastern State Penitentiary (PA) (Images of America)
by Francis X Dolan
Images of America (Pennsylvania)
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Description
The most significant building project of its time, Eastern State Penitentiary was designed to reshape the minds of its inmates, rather than break their spirits. It was believed that by keeping prisoners isolated in the chapel-like cells the inner light of their souls would emerge, leading them to discover penitence. In reality, the isolation was nearly impossible to maintain, and the lofty goals of the founders crumbled in the 20th century, much like the building itself. Originally located show more on the outskirts of Philadelphia, the city eventually expanded and swallowed up the prison. Its unique location became problematic, and numerous escapes and riots threatened the civilian populace in the area. The prison was home to such well-known figures as Chicago mob boss Al Capone and bank robber Willie Sutton, once the most wanted man in America. Eastern State Penitentiary chronicles the history of this massive prison from its opening in 1829 to its closing and abandonment in 1971, and finally to the rebirth of the prison in the 1990s as a thriving historic site and national historic landmark show lessTags
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Member Reviews
Excellent photos and tid bits of how the prison changed and developed over the years. You can read a few pages at a time or take it all in in one sitting. I found myself studying the photos closely, immersing myself in all the little details that I enjoy. Eastern State is a wonderful site and truly a part of our history.
The book is divided into sections; the building itself, the faces of the prison, and then later years. I will certainly be taking a closer look at things upon my return to Eastern State, to see with my own eyes things I read about here.
The book is divided into sections; the building itself, the faces of the prison, and then later years. I will certainly be taking a closer look at things upon my return to Eastern State, to see with my own eyes things I read about here.
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Author Information
1 Work 31 Members
Series
Common Knowledge
- Important places
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Original language
- English
Classifications
- Genres
- Nonfiction, History, Art & Design, Travel
- DDC/MDS
- 365.97481 — Society, government, & culture Social problems and social services Punishment History, geographic treatment, biography North America Northeastern U.S. Philadelphia
- LCC
- HV9481 .P52 .E374 — Social sciences Social pathology. Social and public welfare. Criminology Social pathology. Social and public welfare. Criminal justice administration Penology. Prisons. Corrections By region or country
- BISAC
Statistics
- Members
- 31
- Popularity
- 902,686
- Reviews
- 1
- Rating
- (5.00)
- Languages
- English
- Media
- Paper, Ebook
- ISBNs
- 2
- ASINs
- 1
