Philadelphia Chapter Event

Philadelphia Chapter Event: Virtual Tour of Eastern State Penitentiary

Thursday, January 21, 2021, 11am EST‑12pm EST
Location: Online via Zoom
Registration Deadline: Friday, January 15, 2021
Contact: Fran Jonas
Email: fjonas@comcast.net

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Learn more about Philadelphia's Eastern State Penitentiary's history, discover the spaces and stories held within its walls, and reflect on its relevance today.
 
Organized Crime Prohibition Era
Embark on an in-depth virtual exploration of vice, scandal and the struggles Eastern State faced in the early 20th century. This guided program includes a brief overview of Eastern State’s founding principles, highlights organized crime figures who spent time at Eastern State, including “Scarface” Al Capone, and ends with a discussion.

Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, but stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Known for its grand architecture and strict discipline, this was the world's first true "penitentiary," a prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of prisoners. Its vaulted, sky-lit cells once held many of America's most notorious lawbreakers.

Registrants will recieve a confirmation email with the ZOOM link prior to the event.