The Old Montana Prison located in the shadow of Powell Mountain would bear witness to tragedy in the spring of 1959. Not long after, the last prisoners would be removed. Leaving the stone walls empty but not for long. Soon, it would see new life as a museum, greeting nearly 40,000 tourists each year.

Sources for this episode:

Montana Vigilantes – Legends of America

The story of ‘Turkey Pete’

Old Prison Museum in Deer Lodge, Montana – Legends of America

The Writing of “Jerry’s Riot”, Montana – Legends of America

Old Montana State Prison: More Than a Museum; Punishment and Incarceration from the Early Days of the Montana Territory to Present Day Author Haas, Taylor Kate

The Old Montana State Prison situated on Main St. in the small town of Deer Lodge would have a long and storied history in its 108 years of operation. Opening before Montana had even gained statehood, it would hold the lives and souls of many men within its large and imposing stone walls. It was a place ment for punishment, and it took that job seriously. This episode explores the dark and troublesome past of Montana’s first prison.

Sources for this episode:

Montana Vigilantes – Legends of America

The story of ‘Turkey Pete’

Old Prison Museum in Deer Lodge, Montana – Legends of America

The Writing of “Jerry’s Riot”, Montana – Legends of America

Old Montana State Prison: More Than a Museum; Punishment and Incarceration from the Early Days of the Montana Territory to Present Day

Join friends, Heather and Merlita, as they delve into Montana history!

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