Take a Closer Look at the Tennessee State Prison

Few things in life get me more excited than good architecture (and I promise, I really am fun, contrary to what you might think after reading that statement). That said, I recently became a member of Historic Nashville,  a nonprofit organization established to 'promote and preserve the historic places that make Nashville unique' -- and who also happen to provide some of the most stellar behind-the-scenes tours of various buildings and landmarks throughout our fabulous city. Most recently, I joined them for a tour of the Tennessee State Prison, which, in my humble opinion happens to be one of the most beautiful and intriguing places in all of Nashville. Located just a few minutes outside the city on site not open to the general public, the prison is unfortunately only seen by a handful of lucky folk -- and thanks to Historic Nashville, I was fortunate enough to join them.

I encourage you to read up on the fascinating history of the prison and the efforts that are currently underway to preserve it, but in the meantime wanted to share with you pictures I captured on our recent visit.

A couple shots of the exterior, which used to be stark white brick before it was painted.

View from the rear yard:

A mural of Tennessee painted inside the mess hall:

A view inside of a cell block:

Outside Death Row: 

One last exterior shot:

Historic Nashville has been and continues impacting our city by helping preserve some of its greatest landmarks. Learn more about the organization and their efforts here.