The Notorious New-Gate Prison Is The Coolest Attraction In Connecticut
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Taylor Ellis
Author
Located in East Granby, New-Gate Prison is a mine site that also used to house criminals. Once you hear its history, you’ll understand why it’s now operated as the Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine Archaeological Preserve. In fact, you probably won’t believe the mishaps that went on here!
It 1790, it became a state prison - the first state prison in the United States! What's left of the brick and masonry walls are the remnants of a structure over 250 years old! So, visit this prison for a peek at living history.
Unfortunately, this place was actually pretty terrible as a prison. In addition to reports of prisoner abuse, there were also a number of escapes. In fact, the very first prisoner escaped just after a year of confinement.
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The grounds of the prison are absolutely lovely, not to mention the lush view. You're sure to love what you find up top, but what's below is pretty cool, too! Remember when I said there was a mine?
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That's right! A quick trip down the stairs reveals what's left of the copper mines. Despite several attempts at revival in the early 1800s, the mines could not be restored, and they have remained a tourist attraction ever since. The prisoners who once had to live here referred to the underground space only as Hell. After all, they were sleeping on piles of hay inside of mining tunnels.
There are plenty of chambers and tunnels to see, including the ones most commonly thought to be used for escape. They were never closed because they were needed for ventilation, so you're sure to have a lot of laughs as you stare down the paths that led to this prison's ruin. Although, the way in which some inmates escaped still remains a mystery. Given its past, some folks think this place is haunted, but no one's reported anything out of the ordinary.
Check out this drone footage for a look at the beautiful grounds!
If you thought New-Gate Prison was cool, wait until you see Connecticut’s Hidden River! Have fun and don’t forget to share photos of your adventures with @onlyinconnecticut on Instagram!
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