Moundsville Penitentiary

This old prison still stands in West Virginia. It operated for 119 years. During the years it was run it was considered one of America’s most violent correctional facilities.

"Old Sparky"

Close to 1,000 men that entered its doors died while incarcerated. Some died by hanging or later by electric chair. Others were murdered by fellow inmates or took their own lives.

Moundsville was notorious for violent riots that were caused by overcrowding. In the 1950s the prison was filled beyond capacity—each 5X7 foot cell housed three prisoners. This was later deemed inhumane.

Moundsville was closed down in 1995--  tours are offered today. Staff and visitors have reported seeing shadows and hearing strange noises in the old prison.

One of the first sightings was of one inmate who was brutally murdered by fellow prisoners. The room he haunts is the reception area of the prison. It was dubbed, “The Sugar Shack” by the inmates because of the fights, rapes, and murders that often occurred in this room.

The Sugar Shack

The murdered inmate, R. D. Wall met his fate here. He was cut and stabbed to the point that his body was found later in many pieces. His ghost is spotted lurking in the dark corners in the Sugar Shack.

Shadow figure photographed
by Polly Gear

A dark shadow has been seen in this area as well. This entity has shown up in photos taken.

Other restless spirits have also been seen in other parts of this prison. Some speculate these are the men who were executed.

To add to this activity is the fact that the town of Moundsville, West Virginia is named after many Native American, Adena, burial mounds located in the area. It is said these spirits have been seen by many.

With all this mysterious activity would you dare to take one of the night tours offered at Moundsville?