Historic Iowa State Penitentiary: A Glimpse into the Past
Explore over 175 years of history within the imposing walls of Iowa's oldest penitentiary, a landmark of justice, punishment, and reform.
The Historic Iowa State Penitentiary in Fort Madison, Iowa, established in 1839, stands as the oldest continually operating prison west of the Mississippi River. Its imposing stone walls and fortress-like architecture offer a unique look into the evolution of incarceration and the lives of those who lived within its walls.
A brief summary to Historic Iowa State Penitentiary
- #3 John Bennett Dr, Fort Madison, Iowa, 52627, US
- +1319-372-5432
Local tips
- Check the Historic Iowa State Penitentiary's Facebook page for information on upcoming meetings, reports, and potential tour availability.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the penitentiary grounds involves a good amount of walking.
- Consider visiting nearby attractions like the North Lee County Historical Society Museums or the Santa Fe Depot Complex to enrich your visit to Fort Madison.
Getting There
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Car
If arriving by car from the north or south, use US-61 to reach Fort Madison. Take the John Bennett Drive exit and turn onto John Bennett Drive. The Historic Iowa State Penitentiary will be on your right at #3 John Bennett Dr. On-site parking is available.
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Public Transport
Greyhound and FlixBus offer bus services to Fort Madison from various locations. From the Fort Madison bus station at 819 6th St, the penitentiary is about 1.5 miles away. You can take a taxi or rideshare service to the penitentiary at #3 John Bennett Dr. Alternatively, you can walk, which takes approximately 30 minutes. Bus tickets to Fort Madison can range from $43-$98 depending on the departure location. A taxi or rideshare from the bus station to the penitentiary will likely cost around $5-$15.
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Train
Amtrak provides train service to Fort Madison. The closest train station to the city center is the Historic Santa Fe Station, located just 0.1 miles away. From there, you can take a taxi or rideshare to the Historic Iowa State Penitentiary. Train tickets vary in price.
Discover more about Historic Iowa State Penitentiary
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