Everywhere: Articles: Old State Pen

Gaurd Tower by Michael Adams

these towers are on the corner of every edge of the prison.

The Old State Pen.

Hidden treasure amidst the suburban city

Having lived in Boise for a number of years and never visited the Old State Pen I thought it was about time.

The pen is located right below the scenic outlook of Table Rock that overlooks Boise.

My better half and I drove down to the parking area and walked to the reception area.

After paying the $5 apiece to get in, we were given our map and self guided tour directions.

We then started at the display of weapons and worked out from there.

The weapons display has to be one of the most complete collections I have ever seen.

They were donated to the historical society by J. Curtis Earl.

If you visit this area, the weapon display alone is worth the price of admission...

Most of the photos I have from this area were blurry due to hand held and low light conditions.

We then looked at the map to see what was able for us to enter and explore.

Surprisingly there is quite a few building in decent condition that can be explored.

There was a laundry room that was open complete with pulley driven washing machines.

Hidden off of this room is the shower room that is not open to the public.

Luckily there was a small window with part of the screen removed so I was able to snap a few grab shots.

I spent more time looking at the building and capturing what I thought was interesting about the whole site, rather than looking at the exhibits.

There is also an antique car exhibit that I do not have picture for.

There is much history and photographic opportunity at this location if you open your eyes to what is available!

Here is the official Old State Pen site offering more historic information!

Weapons exhibit information:

Boise State University's information on other exhibits:

Below are my photos from the shoot.

Hopefully you will see some of the heartbreak that I saw here.