1931 Administration Building - Deer Lodge, MT - Montana Historical Markers on Waymarking.com

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1931 Administration Building - Deer Lodge, MT

in Montana Historical Markers

Posted by:  T0SHEA

12T E 366533 N 5139117

This is one of several history signs within the old Montana State Prison, each of which which relates a small aspect of the history of the prison. This sign tells us of the Administration Building, built in 1931.

The prison was built in stages over many years, mostly by the convicts themselves, a good example of "hard labor". The present cell block was built in 1896, the prison wall was extended north in 1911 and a 400-man cell block built within in 1912, a theatre was built in 1918-1919, the administration building in 1930-1931, and dormitories, a storage building and a visitor centre were built between 1910 and 1930. A maximum security building, also used as a women's ward was built circa 1918.

Self sufficient, the prison had its own water well and water tower, power house, hospital and school.

The prison was still in use when entered in the national register on September 3rd, 1976, but was decommissioned by the end of the decade.

The Powell County Museum has online a great article on the prison.

This administration building was the heart of security and prison operations. Here new prisoners were admitted, inmates received visitors, and departing prisoners were counselled about outside employment. The main floor contained the offices of the deputy warden, chaplain, teachers, social workers, and psychiatrists. It also housed essential services such as the infirmary, laundry room, and mail room.

The basement originally held the dining room, kitchen, and bakery. In 1959, a new dining hall and kitchen were constructed and-the basement of the administration building was remodeled to accommodate showers, a dormitory, and a chapel.
From the sign