The former West Virginia Penitentiary is a gothic-style fortress situated in the heart of historic Moundsville, West Virginia. The structure, which has been placed on the National Historic Register, encompasses over ten acres of ground and was the second public building constructed by the newly formed state of West Virginia after the Civil War.

A tour guide will escort you through this 90 minute tour where you will experience for yourself.  
 

• Inmate creations ranging from beautiful murals to dangerous homemade weapons.
• The eerie sounds of a cell block being locked down as the door slams in front of you in your 5x7 cell.
• North Hall where the worst of the worst criminals spent 22 hours per day in their cells.
• “Old Sparky” the electric chair that was built by an inmate and used to execute nine others. You also will see  a demonstration of the hangings that were the method off execution for over 40 years.
   

The facility is open for tours April through  November,  Tuesday through Sunday.
Tours are on the hour and begin at 10am with the last tour leaving at 4pm.

Special Activities include  “ ghost hunts” and “ night tours” by appointment only.

 Annual  Events
at the Penitentiary:

ELIZABETHTOWN FESTIVAL
An 1800’s Event Featuring Juried Crafts
 

DUNGEON OF HORRORS
 The Scariest Haunted House in the Area
 

 The former WV Penitentiary is also available
for corporate and party rentals.

For more information call 304-845-6200

Website  www.wvpentours.com

Email  info@wvpentours.com