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19.12.2024
The Ohio State Reformatory

Ohio State Reformatory (OSR), also known as Mansfield Reformatory, is a historic prison located in Mansfield, Ohio. Designed by Cleveland architect Levi Scofield, the building was conceived as a grand and inspiring structure with elements of Roman, Victorian Gothic style. Scofield aimed to create an atmosphere conducive to the spiritual revival of inmates.

Initially known as the “Intermediate Prison,” OSR opened its doors in 1896, accepting criminals who were too old for juvenile detention facilities but committed less serious crimes than those incarcerated in Ohio’s state prison.

The main goal of the institution was rehabilitation, which involved providing religious education, vocational training, and other correctional programs. The first incarceration period lasted 18 months, after which inmates could be released upon positive change or serve an additional 18 months. This rehabilitation model was successful and showed low recidivism rates.

However, by the 1960s, the state began transforming OSR into a maximum-security facility, for which the prison was not equipped. Conditions deteriorated, and in the 1980s, inmates filed a collective lawsuit, which was successful. As a result, OSR was closed in 1990, and a new facility was built nearby.

Despite its closure, the correctional facility remains an important historical and cultural monument. Thanks to the efforts of the Mansfield Reformatory Preservation Society, the building was saved from demolition and transformed into a museum that attracts over 120,000 visitors annually. It houses the Ohio State Reformatory History Museum and is also a popular site for ghost hunters, paranormal enthusiasts, and film fans, especially due to filming of the movie “The Shawshank Redemption.”

In addition to tours and special events like the INKcarceration music and tattoo festival, OSR has become a popular location for filmmakers. Its dramatic architecture has appeared in many movies and music videos, including “Air Force One,” “Tango & Cash,” and others. The prison’s close connection to pop culture and its rich history continue to attract interest and support for further restoration.

Today, visitors can explore the correctional facility through various tours, including historical walks.

Current information:
Address: 100 Reformatory Rd, Mansfield, OH 44905, United States
Contacts: +1 (419) 522-2644
Hours:
Mon-Sun 11:00-16:00 (11:00 AM - 04:00 PM)

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