[john*thomas]

At one time one of the most violent prisons in the country. At it's peak, one cell would hold 3-4 men. A riot in 1986 finally brought attention to the conditions there which ended up closing it.

Charles Manson's mother spent time here. The woman's ward is now gone. Charlie wrote to the warden in an attempt to get transferred here (his letter is on display) and the warden wrote him back in no uncertain terms, hell no.

You can now tour the old building. This was a night tour I went on. Basically they turn you loose for a few hours to just explore. There is no electricity so you are on your own.

[john*thomas]

I forgot to note.....the first time I went years ago you could sit in "Old Sparky" but not any more.

[luton loyal]