The Historic Ohio State Reformatory

The Ohio State Reformatory, otherwise known as Mansfield Reformatory, was built from 1886 to 1910 and ran until 1990. But, after a Federal Court order due to inhumane conditions, it was shut down.

The site gained fame through its appearance on TV shows, movies like The Shawshank Redemption (1994), and music videos. Despite being abandoned, it's a notable “haunted” location in the States.

The closure stemmed from a prisoner's class-action lawsuit citing overcrowding and inhumane conditions, resulting in demolition of most structures post-closure. In 1995, remaining parts became a museum, preserving buildings against decay.

The East Cell Block, the world's largest free-standing steel cell block, still stands. The closure, initially planned for 1986, was delayed by construction issues for four years. The transformation into a museum aimed to retain historical significance and combat further deterioration.

Events at the Ohio State Reformatory

The venue has become an attraction not just for tourists but also for events and concertgoers looking to experience the haunted allure amidst lively entertainment.

On Apri 8th, The Ohio State Reformatory hosts Eclipse in the Yard. Witness the rather celestial event while enjoying a self-guided tour and live DJ. May brings ParaPsyCon V from 17th to 19th, uniting enthusiasts of the paranormal and mysterious.

Inkcarceration 2024, a rock festival featuring top bands, tattoo artists, and tours, will take place in July. In August, the Shawshank Redemption 30th Anniversary Celebration will take place from the 9th to the 11th, exploring 15 filming sites across Mansfield, Ashland, and Upper Sandusky.

Then, on August 10th, the arena will host the Shawshank Hustle 2024 for what will go down as a fun-filled run at the iconic filming location.

How to get cheap tickets

If you are a lover of slightly terrifying yet energetic shows, the Ohio State Reformatory hardly disappoints. Whether you're a local or just visiting, catching performances at this historic venue is a must.

While events in Mansfield can sometimes come with an unexplainable exclusivity, TicketX provides budget-friendly access to all of the reformatory's events. From concerts to tours, the offers an intuitive platform with low fees, live seat previews, and flexible payment options.

How to get to Ohio State Reformatory

The venue is reachable via CAT bus routes 1, 2, and 3 and Mansfield's Amtrak station. Bus fares range from $1.75 to $2.50, while train fares vary. On-site parking starts at $5, offering options like general lots and disabled parking areas for visitors' convenience.