The Eastern State Penitentiary opened in 1829 under the theory that
the character of inmates could be changed by placing them alone in
individual cells for extended periods of time, forcing them into
self-reflection and spiritual change. Although this use of solitary
confinement ultimately proved both cruel and ineffective and was soon
abandoned, the radial "wagon-wheel" floor plan was copied throughout
the world. The prison was deemed obsolete and abandoned in 1971 and now stands as a
fascinating, crumbling ruin and tourist attraction.
