Carson City, Nevada, United States
For 150 years, from 1862 until its closure in 2012, the Nevada State Prison located in Carson City, Nevada stood as a grim testament to a history filled with chilling tales. Ravaged by fire in 1867 and again in 1870, the prison proved its resilience by being rebuilt with quarried stone using the labor of inmates. 1871 saw a harrowing chapter unfold as 29 inmates sought freedom by force, plunging the prison into chaos. Armed […]
Nestled in the heart of Virginia City, Nevada, lies the infamous Old Washoe Club. The town itself flourished on the riches unearthed from successful silver mining ventures during the heyday of the old west. Originally established in 1862 and affectionately dubbed “The Millionaire’s Club” by affluent patrons, the Old Washoe Club became a haven for the elite Comstock gentlemen seeking lavish entertainment and exclusive camaraderie. However, tragedy struck in October 1875 when a devastating fire […]
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Welcome to the Melbourne Quarantine Station, a site nestled on the Mornington Peninsula in Portsea, Australia. Initially established in 1852 as a defence against the invasion of infectious diseases, it was once known as the ‘Sanitary Station’ and harbours a dark history steeped in despair. The arrival of the Ticonderoga, also referred to as “the plague ship” in 1852, increased the need for a Quarantine Station as sickness ravaged its passengers, some were even left […]
Located in Winchester, Indiana, The Randolph County Asylum, built in 1899, was originally established as the Randolph County Poorhouse. This property housed those deemed unable to work, including the mentally and physically disabled, single mothers, the elderly, and orphans. The residents of this grim institution, once tasked with maintaining the farm, faced challenges where age or physical ability often hindered their labour efforts. With a tumultuous past that saw a wooden building ravaged by fire […]
The notorious Beechworth Gaol looms large over the historic town of Beechworth in Victoria, Australia. Construction with stone and iron began in 1859, but the history of this grim fortress extends far beyond mere imprisonment. Within its walls once dwelled some of Australia’s most notorious figures, including the infamous bushranger outlaw Ned Kelly, his family, and the members of the Kelly gang. The gaol’s original wooden gates were replaced with iron barriers in 1880, due […]
The mysterious Jamaica Inn is a place steeped in centuries of haunting history. Built in 1750 as a coaching stop for travellers crossing the desolate moors, this foreboding establishment stands as a link between the towns of Bodmin and Launceston. The original structure was expanded in 1778 to include a coach house, stable, and tack house, creating the unsettling “L shape” main part of the building. But behind its facade of hospitality it once concealed […]
Wicklow Gaol’s dark history and secrets stretch back to the early 1700s, where this dark fortress was aptly dubbed “The Gates of Hell.” It served as a focal point for rebels amid the tumultuous events of the 1798 Rebellion. The gallows loom ominously above the gaol’s entrance acting as a somber testament to the many lives lost. Even today, the walls resonate with the lingering echoes of the final execution in 1843. Along the murky […]
Charleville Castle is nestled in the picturesque county Offaly, within the charming Irish village of Tullamore. This enchanting castle stands atop an ancient druid burial ground, bearing witness to centuries of tumultuous battles between Ireland and England, as well as ancient druid rituals performed on its sacred grounds. Sketches of Charleville Castle emerged in 1798, with construction commencing in 1800 and culminating in its completion in 1812, a magnificent testament to the vision of The […]