Locked Gates

- Alaina


“Why are you locking that gate behind us?” It’s a question I get a lot. Sometimes, what with all the gates that must be opened and closed, unlocked and locked (“hey, what’s in there??”) as we tour guides move through the building and lead our groups, it might seem like ESP’s staff still wants to keep anyone from escaping. Despite the fact that ESP (though I say it myself) is the coolest historic attraction in Philly nowadays, back when most of the prison was built in the early 1800’s, no-one had any idea it would become a popular 21st century museum. Now, we have to adapt ESP to its new purpose.

“But why can’t I stroll wherever I want?” visitors wonder. Well, in a 180-year-old building, safety is paramount. Even staffers can’t enter some areas of ESP, because of the dangerous deterioration. This dilapidation is part of the prison’s irresistibly authentic aura – but also the biggest challenge of inviting folks inside. The best way to make sure everyone is safe is to keep track of where everyone is, and that’s why I lock the gate behind us. 

But those who have been to ESP know that you need a few hours to take in all the places you can wander. The fact is, a few locked gates are really what allow us to keep so many spaces open. And although a few cell blocks are closed, you still have a great view of their haunting, deserted corridors – making for some of the best photo ops in the city. Our stabilization and restoration work is always going on, and this year, new tour spaces include the TowerCam exhibit and Cellblock 14’s underground “Klondike.” So every season, I’ll be unlocking a few more gates for you.