West Virginia Penitentiary

One of America's most violent prisons - haunted tours

State: West Virginia County: Marshall County Founded: 1866

The West Virginia Penitentiary operated from 1866-1995, earning a reputation as one of the most violent prisons in America. 94 men were executed here. After closing, it became a tourist attraction famous for paranormal investigations. While the town of Moundsville survives, the prison is its own preserved ghost institution.

Quick Facts

  • Prisoners built their own prison
  • 94 executions (hanging and electric chair)
  • Called one of America's 'top 10 most violent'
  • One of most-investigated 'haunted' locations

Location

Address: Moundsville, Marshall County, West Virginia

Coordinates: 39.9206, -80.7428