Inside Old Joliet Prison: An Exclusive Artifact Preservation Tour in Illinois
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as walking terrain is flat and short in distance.
Overview
Discover the hidden world of artifact preservation at Old Joliet Prison in Illinois. Join a guided tour with museum anthropologist Sylvia Scoggin to see how history is conserved behind the scenes.
Behind the Scenes Artifact Tour
Preservation in Action!
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About This Adventure
Join anthropologist Sylvia Scoggin for an exclusive one-hour tour of the Old Joliet Prison Museum's artifact storage facilities. Discover the fascinating world of artifact preservation and gain unique insights into the museum's inner workings. This behind-the-scenes experience promises to be both educational and memorable for history enthusiasts.
Join anthropologist Sylvia Scoggin for an exclusive one-hour tour of the Old Joliet Prison Museum's artifact storage facilities. Discover the fascinating world of artifact preservation and gain unique insights into the museum's inner workings. This behind-the-scenes experience promises to be both educational and memorable for history enthusiasts.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early
Check in at the East Gate of Old Joliet Prison promptly to ensure participation in the tour.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Be prepared to walk across the prison campus to the storage facility with ease.
Minimum Age Requirement
Participants must be at least 12 years old to join the tour due to content and site regulations.
No Large Bags Allowed
To protect the artifacts, bag size may be restricted; travel light for convenience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer in nearby woodlands
- Common migratory birds along the river
History
Old Joliet Prison opened in 1858 and was a flagship facility in Illinois, housing some of the state’s most notorious inmates until its closure in 2002.
Conservation
The museum uses controlled environments and gentle preservation techniques to protect artifacts from deterioration, emphasizing sustainable practices in artifact care.
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Adventure Hotspots in Joliet
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for walking across the prison grounds comfortably during the tour.
Light Jacket
Spring in Joliet can be cool; a light jacket keeps you comfortable walking outdoors.
spring specific
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months when walking outside.
summer specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the architecture and surrounding landscape but note photos inside storage may be restricted.