Ohio State Reformatory (Mansfield)
The prison where 'The Shawshank Redemption' was filmed is genuinely haunted. 215 inmates died here, including many by violence. Guards, the warden's family, and prisoners all left spirits behind.
The Ohio State Reformatory, famous as the filming location of “The Shawshank Redemption,” has a dark history that makes it one of America’s most haunted prisons. Approximately 215 inmates died within its walls.
The Prison
According to historical records:
The reformatory operated from 1896 to 1990:
- Built to reform young first-time offenders
- Gothic architecture designed to inspire penance
- Became severely overcrowded
- Conditions deteriorated badly
- Violence was common
Tragic Deaths
The prison witnessed numerous deaths:
The Warden’s Family: Warden Arthur Glattke’s wife Helen died in 1950 when a gun discharged in her closet. Warden Glattke died in the same office of a heart attack years later. Both ghosts are reported.
Inmate Violence: Murders, suicides, and deaths from illness occurred regularly.
The Tuberculosis Ward: Many died of disease in overcrowded conditions.
The Hauntings
Reported phenomena include:
The Warden’s Quarters: Helen Glattke’s perfume is smelled. Her ghost is seen in the quarters.
The Chapel: Disembodied voices and music are heard. Shadow figures appear during services held there.
Solitary Confinement (“The Hole”): Intense negative energy. Shadow figures. Sounds of suffering.
The Cellblocks: The world’s largest freestanding steel cellblock. Ghostly inmates are seen. Doors slam.
Notable Experiences
Visitors report:
- Being touched by unseen hands
- Shadow figures in cells
- Disembodied voices calling names
- Cell doors slamming
- Cold spots throughout
- Equipment malfunctions
- The smell of smoke and perfume
Investigations
The reformatory has been investigated by:
- Ghost Adventures (multiple episodes)
- Ghost Hunters
- Paranormal State
- Countless investigation teams
It’s considered one of the most paranormal-active locations in America.
The Shawshank Connection
The prison was used in filming:
- “The Shawshank Redemption” (1994)
- “Air Force One” (1997)
- Multiple other productions
- The Shawshank fame brings additional tourism
Modern Status
Today the reformatory is:
- Open for historic and paranormal tours
- Available for overnight investigations
- A popular Halloween destination
- The Shawshank Trail includes the location
- Restoration is ongoing
The Preservation
The Mansfield Reformatory Preservation Society:
- Saved the building from demolition
- Operates tours and events
- Documents paranormal activity
- Maintains the historic structure