Category: History

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The History of Kansas State Penitentiary

The Kansas State Penitentiary, established by the Kansas Territorial Legislature in 1859, is one of the nation’s oldest prisons and offers a remarkable opportunity to explore over 160 years of rich history. This historic site stands as a testament to the evolution of the American justice system. The compelling stories of those who lived and worked within its formidable walls are shared by former correctional officers, assistant wardens, and wardens.

Historical Significance:
The Kansas State Penitentiary is more than just a building; it symbolizes Kansas’ early statehood and the challenges of establishing law and order on the frontier. Opening shortly after Kansas became a state, this prison has witnessed significant events from the Civil War to the modern era, with each period leaving its mark on its history.

Architectural Marvel:
The prison’s imposing limestone structures, quarried and constructed by early inmates, reflect the craftsmanship of that era. As you walk the grounds, you can almost hear echoes of the past—the sound of hammers in the stone quarries, voices from the chow hall, and even the performances that once took place within its walls.

Personal Narratives:
The untold stories of inmates, staff, and their families provide a rich tapestry of experiences that highlight themes of rehabilitation, resilience, and human struggles. Educational programs often include personal accounts from former staff or historians who can elaborate on the complexities of life inside the prison. This aspect brings a personal touch to the factual history, making it more relatable and engaging.

Cultural Connections:
The facility is also a significant piece of cultural history, having hosted performances from iconic musicians, like Johnny Cash and his wife, June Carter Cash during the early 1970’s to hosting the annual “Behind the Walls” car show the last weekend in September.

Interactive Learning:
Guided tours by former correctional officers can offer engaging learning opportunities for students, history enthusiasts, and the general public. These experiences can include interactive exhibits, discussions, and even workshops that delve deeper into the societal implications of incarceration and reform.

Overall, the historic Kansas State Penitentiary stands as an educational resource, inviting reflection on justice, history, and human experience. It encourages visitors to engage thoughtfully with the complexities of the past while considering their relevance to contemporary issues.

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The story of Ernest Aspinwall

This photo of Ernest Aspinwall, taken in 1959 by a Kansas City Star photographer, captures a moment of recognition for Ernie and his incredible artistic talent. At the time, the Star was featuring a story about his life, his artwork, and the frescoes he painted in the auditorium of the Service Center building. In the background of the photo, the older penitentiary buildings are visible, including the building that housed Death Row. This historic view contrasts with the present use of the same space, which is now the site of the baseball field and recreation area.

The Service Center Building, constructed in 1923, is an extraordinary part of the Kansas State Penitentiary’s legacy, showcasing stunning Art Deco design on both its exterior and the interior of its auditorium/gymnasium. This three-story brick building holds a deep historical and cultural significance.
One of its most notable features is the series of four frescoes painted by former inmate Ernest Aspinwall. Aspinwall, serving two life sentences as an habitual criminal, demonstrated remarkable artistic talent during his incarceration. The frescoes are remarkable depictions of early frontier life and the pioneers who settled in Kansas. Aspinwall was deeply dedicated to his craft, often spending months researching the subject matter of his art to ensure its authenticity and detail.
Aspinwall’s meticulous work reflects not only his artistic talent but also to his commitment to preserving history through art. These frescoes are more than just paintings on a wall, they are an irreplaceable record of Kansas’s frontier past, capturing the spirit of those who helped shape the state’s identity.

Aspinwall’s sentences were commuted by the governor in 1959, and by 1969, Aspinwall was creating art as a street artist in San Francisco. Today many of his works are considered highly collectible.

This photo serves as a powerful reminder of Aspinwall’s story and the evolution of the penitentiary itself – preserving the past while acknowledging its transformation over time.