Historic Iowa State Penitentiary: A Glimpse into the Past
Explore over 175 years of history within the walls of Iowa's oldest penitentiary, a unique landmark in Fort Madison.
The Historic Iowa State Penitentiary in Fort Madison, Iowa, established in 1839, offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of American penal systems. As the oldest continually operating prison west of the Mississippi until its closure in 2015, its imposing stone walls and fortress-like architecture tell tales of justice, punishment, and reform.
A brief summary to Historic Iowa State Penitentiary
- #3 John Bennett Dr, Fort Madison, Iowa, 52627, US
- +1319-372-5432
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking through various parts of the facility.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique architecture and scenic views of the Mississippi River.
- Check for special events or themed tours for a deeper insight into specific aspects of the prison's history.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Fort Madison Amtrak station, head east on 10th Street toward Avenue H. Turn left onto Avenue H, then turn right onto John Bennett Drive. Continue on John Bennett Drive, and the Historic Iowa State Penitentiary will be on your right. The walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
The Burlington Trailways bus stops in Fort Madison. From the bus stop, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the Historic Iowa State Penitentiary. The ride is approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi/Ride-share cost: Approximately $10 - $15.
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Car
If you're driving from downtown Fort Madison, head east on Avenue G toward 9th Street. Turn left onto 9th Street, then turn right onto John Bennett Drive. Continue on John Bennett Drive, and the Historic Iowa State Penitentiary will be on your right. Parking is available on-site. There are no external costs associated with parking.
Discover more about Historic Iowa State Penitentiary
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