Jackson: Michigan’s First State Prison

[Akadeanna Hawk]

Established in 1838, Michigan’s First State Prison remained in operation through 1934. It was an incredibly brutal place that housed some of the state’s worst criminals and was known for its prisoner neglect, abuse, and torture.

Today the old prison has become the Armory Arts Village, a residence and studio for local artisans. Apartments are very contemporary and halls covered with artwork.

In spite of its modern renovations and freshly painted walls, rumors persist of its haunting. A few artisans have drawn sketches of the fleeting apparitions they’ve seen wandering hallways.

Judy Krasnow is the owner and operator of Jackson Journeys, LLC. Judy hosts daytime historic tours of the prison. She is also the resident expert of the prison’s history and lives on-site. She swears her apartment, which was once series of prison cells, has ghosts. Judy is not the only resident who believes that.

Even thought the upper floors have undergone renovation, the underground section that held solitary confinement remains structurally intact. Although cells have been removed there is intensity in this area that cannot be denied.

Perhaps the most darkly powerful location is the tunnels. As Judy tells us, these small cramped, underground passageways once took guards to the watchtowers and their cottages on the outside of prison walls. Prisoners were also taken through the tunnels to get to and from work. It is believed the tunnels may have been used for prisoner discipline. There is no doubt, even the bravest ghost hunter would feel vulnerable and intimidated in these endlessly dark tunnels.

We began our series of investigation in early 2012. These included private investigations with our core team and, later, public investigation for guests. The volume of recorded evidence collected to date is remarkable. There is no question many inmates at Michigan’s First State Prison have never left.

Michigan’s First State Prison, Jackson, MI Info

---

famous/infamous inmates who have inhabited the Jackson Prison, including Detroit’s Purple Gang and Dr. Jack Kevorkian, a one and only helicopter escape, plus more!

Prison Tours Info

[Alan Vende]

There are many prisons where prisoners take their own lives. I know of one, sadly, from a friend of mine who did that. He took his own life in his cell. I think that this place is haunted by more than just the spirits of the prisoners, though.