Posted in Tennessee
October 04, 2016
A Terrifying Tour Of This Haunted Prison In Tennessee Is Not For The Faint Of Heart
Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary made a name for itself with its most famous prisoner, James Earl Ray, and still stands on the eastern side of the state. It has ceased operations as a veritable prison, per se, but still proffers opportunity for ghost tours and overnight stays for all types of thrill-seekers. Ready to visit?
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate

A maximum-security prison, Brushy is located near the Tennessee town of Petros and operated from 1896 to 2009.

The prison was originally built out of wood on the backs of incarcerated men. It was only in the 1920s that the buildings of stone were rebuilt by prisoners utilizing the property quarry. It is close to Frozen Head State Park, and the geographical location and topography make escape almost impossible.

The best-known escape occurred in 1977. On June 10th, the famed James Earl Ray attempted to escape with six other inmates. He was captured less than 58 hours later, only eight and a half miles from the prison. The rugged terrain proved the greatest guard.

Brushy is also known as the only unionized prison in Tennessee. It worked with the state legislators to protect the rights and working conditions of correctional staff.

The prison has become an interesting type of destination for tourists in recent years. You can take an overnight ghost tour and visit the spirits of the many men who died behind the walls, never to taste freedom again. There are also concerts held here, and a distillery operates on the property as well.

If you're interested in a paranormal tour, it's $1,500 for a group of 12, and you must be over 21. They are available on request and are sure to get you solidly creeped out.
You can take a closer look in the video below:
This is one seriously interesting story and one interesting place. Would you visit? Have you? You can find out more about touring the Penitentiary on its website.
Address: 9182 TN-116, Petros, TN 37845, USA