Ohio State Reformatory

The Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield operated from 1896 to 1990 and is famous as the filming location for “The Shawshank Redemption.” It is also considered one of the most haunted locations in America, with reports from thousands of visitors.

The History

The massive Gothic structure was designed to reform young first-time offenders. Over its 94 years, it housed approximately 155,000 inmates. Violence, disease, and harsh conditions claimed many lives within its walls.

The Ghosts

Visitors report numerous spirits. The ghost of the warden’s wife, who died from a gunshot in their quarters, is frequently seen. Guards who died in riots still patrol. Inmates who never left appear in cells.

The Active Areas

The East and West cell blocks, stacked six tiers high, are particularly active. The warden’s quarters and the isolation unit, known as “the Hole,” generate frequent reports. The chapel and the cemetery behind the prison are also haunted.

Investigation

The reformatory offers ghost hunts and has been investigated by numerous paranormal teams. EVPs, photographs, and video have captured unexplained phenomena. The vast scale of the building allows multiple investigations simultaneously.

Assessment

Ohio State Reformatory combines architectural grandeur, documented suffering, and consistent paranormal reports. Its preservation as a museum and filming location keeps its history and hauntings accessible to the public.