Folsom State Prison History
Folsom State Prison: The Early Years
Authorization and construction
1. California Legislature's decision in 1858
Folsom State Prison's history began with the California Legislature's decision in 1858 to establish a second state prison due to the overcrowding at San Quentin State Prison. However, it took two decades for the construction to begin as the state faced financial challenges.
2. Construction beginning in 1878
Construction of Folsom State Prison finally began in 1878, with the prison being built on 220 acres of land near the American River. The inmates from San Quentin State Prison were put to work on the construction, quarrying granite and building the facilities.
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First inmates and early years
1. Arrival of the first 44 inmates on July 26, 1880
Folsom State Prison officially opened its doors on July 26, 1880, receiving its first 44 inmates. The prisoners were transferred from San Quentin State Prison to serve their sentences at the new facility.
2. Transfer from San Quentin State Prison
The transfer of inmates from San Quentin to Folsom was intended to alleviate overcrowding and provide a more secure environment for the state's most dangerous and persistent criminals.
Choosing the location
1. Abundance of native granite stone
The site for Folsom State Prison was chosen due to its abundance of native granite stone, which was ideal for building a durable and imposing structure. This resource was also used to construct the prison's infamous granite wall.
2. American River's natural boundary and hydroelectric power potential
The location near the American River provided a natural boundary for the prison, as well as the potential for hydroelectric power generation. This would eventually lead to the construction of Folsom Dam in the 1950s.
Prison Design and Purpose
Original design and purpose
1. Housing long-term inmates, habitual criminals, and incorrigibles
Folsom State Prison was designed to house long-term inmates, habitual criminals, and those deemed "incorrigible." This focus on containing the most dangerous and persistent offenders earned Folsom a reputation as the "end of the line" for California prisoners.
2. Reputation as the "end of the line"
This reputation was solidified by the construction of the granite wall, which acted as a physical manifestation of the prison's purpose as a final destination for the state's most dangerous criminals.
Granite wall and security
1. Construction in the 1920s
The granite wall surrounding Folsom State Prison was constructed in the 1920s. This massive structure was built using granite quarried from the prison grounds and served as a symbol of the prison's impenetrability.
2. Notable escape attempts and consequences
Despite the imposing granite wall, there have been several notable escape attempts throughout Folsom State Prison's history. Many of these attempts ended in violence, leading to increased security measures and a further solidification of Folsom's reputation as a formidable institution.
Folsom State Prison Today
Current inmate population
1. Medium Security General Population Level II and Level III male inmates
Today, Folsom State Prison houses Medium Security General Population Level II and Level III male inmates. These prisoners have been classified as requiring medium security due to the nature of their offenses and their behavior within the correctional system.
2. Minimum Security Level I male inmates
Folsom State Prison also houses Minimum Security Level I male inmates who have demonstrated good behavior and are considered to be at low risk for escape or violence. These inmates often participate in various work and education programs offered at the prison.
Folsom Women's Facility (FWF)
1. Activation in January 2013
In January 2013, the Folsom Women's Facility (FWF) was activated, providing a separate correctional facility for female inmates. The FWF is located adjacent to Folsom State Prison and shares some resources with the main facility.
2. Programs and services offered
FWF offers a variety of programs and services aimed at rehabilitation and personal development, including educational courses, vocational training, and substance abuse treatment. These programs are designed to help female inmates reintegrate into society upon their release.
Greystone Adult School and rehabilitative programs
1. Academic courses
Greystone Adult School, located within Folsom State Prison, offers academic courses to inmates, including high school equivalency preparation and various college-level courses. The goal is to provide inmates with educational opportunities that can improve their prospects for successful reentry into society.
2. Career technical education
In addition to academic courses, Greystone Adult School also provides career technical education programs in fields such as automotive repair, welding, and computer technology. These programs aim to equip inmates with marketable job skills upon their release.
Notable Events and Riots
Early escape attempts
1. The first attempt in 1880
The first recorded escape attempt at Folsom State Prison occurred in 1880, shortly after the prison opened. The attempt was unsuccessful, and the inmate was recaptured.
2. Consequences and impact on prison security
Following early escape attempts, Folsom State Prison implemented additional security measures, including the construction of the granite wall and the installation of new surveillance technology.
Violent incidents and riots
1. Inmate and staff casualties
Throughout its history, Folsom State Prison has experienced several violent incidents and riots. These events have resulted in the deaths and injuries of both inmates and staff, leading to heightened security measures and changes in prison policies.
2. Measures taken to address the issue
In response to these incidents, Folsom State Prison has implemented various measures to maintain order and safety, such as increased staffing, enhanced training for correctional officers, and the establishment of specialized response teams to handle emergency situations.
The Folsom Museum
Location and operation
1. Near the entrance of Folsom Prison
The Folsom Museum is located near the entrance of Folsom State Prison and is operated by a dedicated group of volunteers.
2. Run by volunteers
These volunteers work to preserve the history of Folsom State Prison and educate visitors about the institution's past and present.
Exhibits and artifacts
1. Documents from Folsom's history
The Folsom Museum houses a collection of documents related to the prison's history, including original blueprints, inmate records, and historical photographs. These documents provide a unique insight into the evolution of Folsom State Prison and the lives of those who have been incarcerated within its walls.
2. Artifacts and memorabilia
In addition to historical documents, the Folsom Museum also features a variety of artifacts and memorabilia, such as inmate-made artwork, tools used in the construction of the prison, and items from famous inmates. These exhibits offer a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and experiences of those who have been part of Folsom State Prison's history.
Famous Inmates
List of notorious inmates
1. Brief biographies and crimes committed
Folsom State Prison has housed many notorious inmates throughout its history. Some of the most well-known include Charles Manson, a cult leader responsible for several murders; Suge Knight, a record producer and co-founder of Death Row Records; and Timothy Leary, a psychologist and advocate for psychedelic drugs. These inmates, among others, have contributed to Folsom's reputation as a prison for dangerous and high-profile criminals.
2. Time spent at Folsom State Prison
The time these infamous inmates spent at Folsom State Prison varied, with some serving only a few years, while others spent decades behind bars. In some cases, these individuals were transferred to other facilities due to security concerns or changes in their classification.
Impact on Folsom's reputation
1. Public perception of the prison
The presence of famous inmates at Folsom State Prison has shaped the public's perception of the facility as a place where dangerous and high-profile criminals are held. This image has been further reinforced by the prison's history of violent incidents and escape attempts.
2. Media attention and portrayals
Folsom State Prison has also been the subject of significant media attention, both in news coverage and fictional portrayals. Notably, the prison was immortalized in the Johnny Cash song "Folsom Prison Blues" and the subsequent live album recorded at the facility. These portrayals have contributed to Folsom's lasting notoriety and its place in popular culture.