West Virginia Penitentiary – Haunted Prison in Moundsville, West Virginia

The West Virginia Penitentiary in Moundsville is one of the most notoriously haunted prisons in the United States. Operating for over 100 years, this imposing Gothic-style prison was home to thousands of the country’s most dangerous criminals. Its history is plagued with violence, executions, and riots, leaving behind an eerie presence that many believe lingers to this day.

Paranormal investigators and visitors alike report terrifying encounters, from shadowy figures and ghostly apparitions to disembodied screams and unexplained noises.

Historical Background

• Year Built: 1866
• Original Purpose: Maximum-security prison
• Significant Events:
  • Over 100 executions by hanging and electrocution took place here.
  • A riot in 1986 turned deadly, with inmates seizing control for over two days.
  • The prison’s inhumane conditions and violent atmosphere led to numerous murders within its walls.
  • Many believe the “Sugar Shack,” an underground recreational area, was a hotspot for violence and illicit activities.

Paranormal Activity Summary

Visitors and paranormal teams have documented extensive supernatural occurrences, including:

• Shadow figures lurking in the hallways
• Cold spots and sudden temperature drops
• Mysterious footsteps echoing down empty cell blocks
• Unexplained whispers and screams in the dead of night
• Apparitions of former inmates and guards
• A spirit named “Red”—believed to be an executed inmate—roams the halls.
• Reports of objects moving on their own in the old infirmary.

Ghost Stories & Reports

• The Shadow Man: A tall, dark entity often seen lurking in the hallways. Some say he watches visitors from the corners of their vision, vanishing when approached.
• The Spirit of Red Snyder: A convicted murderer who was stabbed over 30 times in his cell. His presence is felt near Cell Block C, where people hear growls, whispers, and footsteps.
• The Warden’s Quarters: Former prison staff and visitors report seeing a ghostly figure walking the balcony, believed to be the restless spirit of a former warden.
• The Sugar Shack: Paranormal investigators often capture EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena) of aggressive voices warning them to leave. The room has an overwhelming sense of dread.

Most Haunted Spot Inside

The North Wagon Gate—where executions took place—is considered the most active paranormal hotspot. The area is filled with cold drafts, unexplained noises, and the feeling of being watched. Some visitors report seeing the noose swing on its own.

Can You Visit?

• Open to the Public? Yes
• Entry Fee: Varies by tour type
• Tour Availability: Daytime historical tours and paranormal investigations at night
• Photography Allowed? Yes
• Visiting Hours: Check official website for seasonal hours

Best Time to Visit

• Fall and winter months tend to have the most reported paranormal activity. Halloween season is particularly popular for ghost hunts.

Paranormal Investigations & Findings

• Featured on Ghost Hunters, Ghost Adventures, and The Travel Channel’s Most Haunted Places.
• Paranormal groups have documented EVPs, unexplained cold spots, and shadowy apparitions moving on infrared cameras.

Safety Warnings & Legal Restrictions

• Certain areas are off-limits due to structural concerns.
• Trespassing after hours is illegal, and security patrols the premises.

The West Virginia Penitentiary is not for the faint of heart. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, its dark past and eerie atmosphere make it one of the most chilling haunted locations in America.