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Alabama First Penitentiary Historical Marker

Explore the site of Alabama's first state prison in Wetumpka, a landmark that tells a story of justice, reform, and historical evolution.

Visit the site of Alabama's first state penitentiary in Wetumpka, marked by a historical marker. Opened in 1841, the prison played a significant role in the state's criminal justice history and evolved over a century of operation.

A brief summary to Alabama First Penitentiary Historical Marker

  • Wetumpka, Alabama, 36092, US

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours for optimal visibility and safety.
  • Combine your visit with other Wetumpka attractions like the Wetumpka Impact Crater or Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson Park.
  • Check local events calendars for festivals or art walks that may enhance your visit to Wetumpka.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Wetumpka, head north on AL-231. Turn left onto Coosa Street, then right onto Alabama Street. The historical marker will be on your left. Parking is available nearby on the street. There are no tolls or parking fees.

  • Walking

    From the Elmore County Museum, walk east on W Bridge Street, then turn left onto Alabama Street. Continue for a few blocks; the historical marker will be on your right. The walk is approximately 0.3 miles and should take about 5-10 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.

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Discover more about Alabama First Penitentiary Historical Marker

The Alabama First Penitentiary Historical Marker commemorates the site of the state's first prison, established in Wetumpka in 1841. This marked a shift towards a more standardized criminal justice system in Alabama. The construction of the Wetumpka State Penitentiary was authorized in January 1839 by Governor Arthur P. Bagby and the State Legislature. The cornerstone was laid in October 1839, and the prison was completed by 1841 at a cost of $84,889. The penitentiary featured 208 cells and was surrounded by 25-foot high walls, earning it the nickname "The Walls of Alabama". The initial design included an impressive three-story entrance building, ornamental ironwork, and landscaped grounds. The facility housed a diverse prison population and was intended to be self-sufficient through industries like wagon and shoe manufacturing, but it struggled financially. Over its 100-year history, the prison underwent significant changes, including a convict leasing system and shifts in demographics. The prison closed in 1942 upon the completion of the Julia Tutwiler Prison for Women. Today, the historical marker serves as a reminder of Alabama's early efforts in criminal justice and the evolution of its penal system.

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