Missouri State Penitentiary, courtesy Jefferson City CVB
JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri — After more than a year of planning and designing, the Missouri State Penitentiary Museum opened for tours on May 28.
The museum, which is designed to complement a visit to the Missouri State Penitentiary, is located on the second floor of the Jefferson City Convention and Visitors Bureau offices at 100 E. High St.
Tours of the historic prison site allow visitors to walk the halls, explore the cells and even sit in the gas chamber. The museum expands the story with artifacts and displays dealing with the themes of prison industries, contract labor/private industries, inside the walls and control and counter-control. The museum includes a replica cell that demonstrates the living conditions at the prison and includes bars, a bunk and a toilet.
“We are so excited to present this space to the public and the many visitors interested in learning more about the Missouri State Penitentiary,” said CVB executive director Diane Gillespie.
The long-term goal is for the museum to eventually be housed on site at the Missouri State Penitentiary.
Groups of 10 or more should contact the CVB to make an appointment. For the first year, entrance to the museum is complimentary to those who purchase a tour ticket at the Missouri State Penitentiary.
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