Usually when traveling on Interstate-8 west, and passing through Yuma, Arizona, I stop at the wetlands along the Colorado River. This time, I wanted to visit some place new. I decided on the Territorial Prison since I had a couple of hours. If you have more time, walk the park near the river too. 

Fortunately a guided tour was available when I arrived at the prison. Call ahead to know tour times. I loved listening to the guide while walking through the prison grounds. The guide dressed the cowboy/western/prison supervisor look and had a wealth of info and photos.

Through history, this area by the Colorado and Gila Rivers, was at crossroads as many immigrants headed westward. In the 1850’s, there was a military post and with the gold rush activity, Yuma became the county seat. In 1876 the prison began being built by the prisoners. 

With our guide, we walked and learned about the prison’s various cells and some of the prisoners. Most prisoners were male. There were only 6 females in the 33 years at this prison. It was a challenge to meet the needs for the female prisoners, especially for one who was pregnant and had her son delivered and staying in the prison for 2 years. There was also an infirmary, library, outdoor areas, tool closets and the “dark cell” for solitary confinement.There are plenty of things to learn about the prison. When this prison closed after 33 years, the new state prison moved to Florence, Arizona.

With the tour guide, exhibits in the museum, a video and walking the grounds, the $10 per person was worth the visit. If you are a senior, you get to pay a reduced fee.