From its opening in 1822 until its last inmate transferred out in 1971, the prison was a model for both design and correctional philosophy.
In America's earlier days, prisons were overcrowded, with cells jammed full of inmates.
Terms were usually short because many, especially repeat offenders, were executed. But the strong Quaker influence in Philadelphia led to a building where inmates could be held in individual cells for long periods, where they were expected to reflect on their life of crime and hopefully repent.
You could argue that the opening of Eastern State Penitentiary fundamentally changed the way our society dealt with crime.
Eastern State housed many famous inmates over the years, including Chicago gangster Al Capone, who did time on a weapons charge, and the notorious bank robber Willie Sutton, who actually tunneled his way out but was caught minutes later.
Since reopening as a museum, Eastern State has offered self-guided audio tours, where you walk through at your own pace. But now a new program called Hands-On History lets you do more.
Sites along the tour highlight features of the prison and are staffed by knowledgeable people who can demonstrate what's there and answer your questions.
You can try to work the locks on the big iron doors. You can get inside the cells and the chaplain's office, where you'll see artwork on the walls. You'll also hear about efforts to preserve those paintings because time is taking a took.
One wing houses underground cells where unruly inmates could be transferred for discipline.
Along the way you'll get a very good idea why the prison was built and run the way it was. And if you want to know more, there are experts on hand and you may ask questions.
Already, organizers have seen visit times getting longer, and now a few guests are coming back for repeat visits.
Hands-On History is free with your regular tour admission of $12.00 for adults, less for senior citizens, students and groups.
Hours are 10:00am to 5:00pm daily. You may enter for tours no later than 4:00pm.
For more information, phone 215-236-3300, or visit their website, http://easternstate.org, where you can click on a discount coupon link.
