“I have to remind myself that some birds aren’t meant to be caged. Their feathers are just too bright. And when they fly away, the part of you that knows it was a sin to lock them up does rejoice. But still, the place you live in is that much more drab and empty that they’re gone.”
—Stephen King
I spent a cold, blustery afternoon exploring The Ohio State Reformatory, the abandoned prison in Mansfield, otherwise known as Shawshank in the acclaimed film. We went early enough for a self-guided tour that everything felt isolated and uncrowded. The resulting experience was haunting and lovely. Dark, dank, decayed—all the things I look for in a destination.
The prison was built in 1886, and its design was based on German castle architecture. Apparently, the architect had hoped that the inmates would find their surroundings spiritually uplifting, but it was soon overrun with hardened criminals and deplorable conditions, resulting in its eventual shutdown in 1990. It is considered one of the most haunted places in Ohio and offers ghost tours if you’re so inclined.
The Shawshank Redemption, inspired by Stephen King’s short story “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption” from the collection Different Seasons, is one of my favorite films. It was surreal to stand in some of the same locations as Tim Robbins or Morgan Freeman. Brooks’ room in particular was great. You can also explore the warden’s office, complete with the safe and brown leather shoes Andy leaves behind before his escape.
If you’re a fan of the film and want to explore some of the filming locations off-site, you can follow the rest of The Shawshank Trail and make your way to the Bissman Building, the exterior for Brooks’ room at the Brewer Hotel, or see the bench where Brooks sat waiting for his pet crow, Jake, or travel down Route 95 where Red rode the bus to Fort Hancock. The famed oak tree where Red sits after gaining his freedom was unfortunately struck by lightning and destroyed earlier this year.
The prison is one of the cooler attractions Ohio has to offer, so whether you’re a film or history buff, it’s well worth the trip.
Very interesting, and I love the photos. May I ask about the tat on your foot, or is that too creepy?
Thank you! The tattoo is by Nate Burns at American Crow Tattoo. It’s bone and birch, birth and renewal, flora and fauna.