The Eastern State Penitentiary (ESP) is a former American prison in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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FACADE
When Eastern State opened in 1829, it did not look like any other building in Philadelphia. In fact, the prison, which was the largest building in the United State at the time, was two miles outside of the city. Since the building itself was intended to deter crime, Eastern State was designed to resemble a medieval or gothic castle. Architect John Haviland said that the building should "strike fear into the hearts of those who thought of committing a crime." Today the prison is a downtown Philadelphia.
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AL CAPONE'S CELL
In 1929, famous gangster Alphonse "Scarface" Capone spent 8 months of his life in this cell. The Philadelphia Daily Ledger reported that Capone was enjoying many luxuries during his stay at Eastern. Reportedly, his cell was furnished with large oriental rugs on the floor, oil painting on the walls and a cabinet radio. The call has been restored t its appearance during Capone's stay.
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SYNAGOGUE
In 1907, Jewish inmates serving time at Eastern State had access to rabbinical council but had no formal place of worship. By 1925, they were 34 Jewish inmates incarcerated, making them a small but growing presence in the larger prison population. In fall of 1927, construction began on the Eastern State Penitentiary. Synagogue in the former exercise yards of Cellblock 7. It is believed to be the first person synagogue in America. By 1929, the Jewish inmate population -- now numbering 49 -- was worshiping here. The Synagogue was restored in 2008.
