Exploring the Abandoned Cresson Sanatorium & Prison
Robert Penchick
Located in the scenic Allegheny Mountains of western Pennsylvania, the now abandoned Cresson Sanatorium and Prison (or the “San” as it was known) was one of many sanatoriums built at a time of health concerns and the spread of tuberculosis.
Originally built on several hundred acres of land in Lilly, Pa. near the town of Cresson Cambria County, the land was sold to the state of Pennsylvania in 1911 by Andrew Carnegie. Carnegie had planed to build a mansion for his mother at the location. However his mother died before she could move.
Cresson Sanatorium treated tuberculosis patients from 1913 until 1964. The still existing Grace Chapel was built in 1914 and completely refurbished in 1947.
In 1957 the facility became part of the Lawrence F. Flick Hospital to treat the mentally retarded. And in 1983 the complex was converted into a state correctional institution (prison) under the Pennsylvania Bureau of corrections. Abandoned in 2013, it is now owned by Big House Produce which uses some of the buildings. However 34 acres and 21 abandoned building, built from 1912 to 2006 are available to explore, for a fee, to see and feel the history of this incredible place.
Entrance is through the Visitors building. You immediately know you are in what Was a prison.
The first view is of the massive Administration/Education building for the prison and the Childern’s home during the tuberculosis years, originally built in 1932.
As we make our was through the many floors of the Administration building we see empty room after room in varying states of decay.
Chairs, desks, filing cabinets and even a type writer still left where they were last used.
An unlikely place to get your shoes shined, but there it was!
A prison torture device??? No, it’s electric hair permanent device!
“Broken dreams and shattered lives.” The facility was always meant for restoration.
Storage room for outdated large screen CRT televisions.
The Administration/Education building holds many classrooms.
No toys in the Attic in this building built in 1932.
Looking back at the building you would think you are in a luxury resort!
On to Grace Chapel. Odd juxtaposition of Razor wire and Church.
Church pews that once held patients and prisoners.
PSALM 91 : “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”
In the basement of the chapel we find the “Game Ball”
The underground tunnel from Grace Chapel to the Flick Hospital Administration building.
Chain Link and Razor wire lead to Cell Block (Housing Unit) D/E.
Miles and Miles of glistening Razor wire around and throughout the facility!
The Cell Block with a public open area.
A Skylight provides illumination as the electric has long been disconnected.
Individual cells are SMALL, cold and damp.
A final “Control Room” in the visitors building as we make our way out.
ALL IMAGES COPYRIGHT 2023 PENCHICK PHOTOGRAPHY