Why the Real Shawshank Prison Was Worse Than the Movie

What happens when a prison becomes more famous after it closes? The Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield was once a state-of-the-art facility meant to rehabilitate young offenders. But over time, its towering gothic architecture became a symbol of overcrowding, violence, and ghost stories — until it finally shut its doors in 1990. Today, it’s a hotspot for filmmakers, tourists, and ghost hunters alike — best known as the filming location for The Shawshank Redemption. In this episode, we explore the strange life of the reformatory, from its progressive 19th-century roots to the brutal scandals that defined its later years. You’ll discover how it became both a cinematic icon and one of America’s most haunted places. #hauntedhistory #ohioreformatory #itshistory Support us on the Patreon 👉 https://patreon.com/RyanSocash Support the Channel by becoming a member 👉 https://youtube.com/channel/UCzIZ8HrzDgc-pNQDUG6avBA/join IT’S HISTORY - Weekly Tales of American Urban Decay as presented by your host Ryan Socash. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2NN2rktA4yMZ4vmNaA3KpsS5KXLj3xVN » Subscribe: https://youtube.com/@ITSHISTORY?sub_confirmation=1 » Listen podcasts: https://ffm.bio/itshistory » CONTACT For brands, agencies, and sponsorships: [email protected] Click here to book a sponsorship with me thoughtleaders.io/reserve/its-history » CREDIT Scriptwriter - Sebastian Ripoll Editor - Ibrahim Yansaneh Host - Ryan Socash Music/Sound Design: Dave Daddario » NOTICE Some images may be used for illustrative purposes only - always reflecting the accurate time frame and content. Events of factual error / mispronounced word/spelling mistakes - retractions will be published in this section.