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Unlocking History

Unlocking History is a video series that examines the intricacies of everyday life at Eastern State Penitentiary and in prisons today. In each installment, our researchers delve into the archives and share a unique, often-overlooked slice of history through the lens of a specific person, community, or topic. Explore the video library below, and be sure to follow us on social media to see new videos as soon as they become available.

All Unlocking History Videos

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The title card for the Unlocking History video, The Secret Lives of Prison Animals.

The Animals of Eastern State Penitentiary

Animals play an important role in many of our lives, so it should come as no surprise that the same holds true for people in prison. Learn more about animals at Eastern State Penitentiary, including beloved dog Pep, and the role of animals in prisons today.

The title card for the Unlocking History video, What's it Like to Come Home After Prison?

Reentry

Life after incarceration comes with many challenges. Engage with stories of people who overcame these barriers and made significant impacts on their communities after their release from Eastern State Penitentiary.

The title card for the Unlocking History video, Prison Life for Women.

Prison Life for Women

Between 1831 and 1923, approximately one thousand women were incarcerated at Eastern State Penitentiary, a prison designed primarily for men. These women came from all walks of life and often faced unique challenges. Their stories are sometimes hidden in the archives, but in this Unlocking History video, we hope to uncover their experiences.

The title card for the Unlocking History video, The Life and Legacy of Reverend Paul Washington.

The Life and Legacy of Reverend Paul Washington

Reverend Paul Washington (1921-2002) had a lengthy career as an Episcopalian priest and local activist in the Philadelphia community. But how did his work bring him to be the Episcopalian chaplain at Eastern State Penitentiary, which he deemed "a large and forbidding structure of concrete and steel in the heart of Philadelphia?" And how did he impact the lives of those who lived at the prison?

The title card for the Unlocking History video, The Unexpected Prison Movement for Prohibition.

How the Temperance Movement Impacted Eastern State

When people think of the Prohibition in the United States, they often think of speakeasies and bootleggers like Al Capone. But how did the temperance movement impact the day-to-day lives of incarcerated people? Would it surprise you to learn that many were in support of the movement? Learn that and more in the latest episode of Unlocking History!

The title card for the Unlock History video on Judaism at Eastern State Penitentiary.

Judaism at Eastern State

From solitary worship to the construction of the first ever prison synagogue, this month's Unlocking History video focuses on the practice of Judaism at Eastern State Penitentiary. How was the faith practiced by those living at Eastern State? What efforts are being taken to preserve these sacred spaces today? Learn that and more when your watch the latest installation of Unlocking History.

The title card for the Unlock History video on The Engineering Achievements of Stephen De Ayala.

The Engineering Achievements of Stephen De Ayala

This month's Unlocking History video encourages viewers to learn more about the design and engineering feats of Stephen De Ayala, who was incarcerated at the penitentiary in the late 19th century. This installment also includes excerpts from a present day interview with De Ayala's great-great granddaughter, Alexa Peregrim.

The title card for the Unlock History video on Sports at Eastern State Penitentiary.

Sports at Eastern State

From solitary exercise to team activities, this month's video invites viewers to learn more about the important role of sports at Eastern State. This includes the penitentiary’s integrated baseball teams and legendary boxer turned Eastern State baseball player Charles “Jack” Blackburn.

The Animals of Eastern State Penitentiary

Animals play an important role in many of our lives, so it should come as no surprise that the same holds true for people in prison. Learn more about animals at Eastern State Penitentiary, including beloved dog Pep, and the role of animals in prisons today.

Reentry

Life after incarceration comes with many challenges. Engage with stories of people who overcame these barriers and made significant impacts on their communities after their release from Eastern State Penitentiary.

Prison Life for Women

Between 1831 and 1923, approximately one thousand women were incarcerated at Eastern State Penitentiary, a prison designed primarily for men. These women came from all walks of life and often faced unique challenges. Their stories are sometimes hidden in the archives, but in this Unlocking History video, we hope to uncover their experiences.

The Life and Legacy of Reverend Paul Washington

Reverend Paul Washington (1921-2002) had a lengthy career as an Episcopalian priest and local activist in the Philadelphia community. But how did his work bring him to be the Episcopalian chaplain at Eastern State Penitentiary, which he deemed "a large and forbidding structure of concrete and steel in the heart of Philadelphia?" And how did he impact the lives of those who lived at the prison?

How the Temperance Movement Impacted Eastern State

When people think of the Prohibition in the United States, they often think of speakeasies and bootleggers like Al Capone. But how did the temperance movement impact the day-to-day lives of incarcerated people? Would it surprise you to learn that many were in support of the movement? Learn that and more in the latest episode of Unlocking History!

Judaism at Eastern State

From solitary worship to the construction of the first ever prison synagogue, this month's Unlocking History video focuses on the practice of Judaism at Eastern State Penitentiary. How was the faith practiced by those living at Eastern State? What efforts are being taken to preserve these sacred spaces today? Learn that and more when your watch the latest installation of Unlocking History.

The Engineering Achievements of Stephen De Ayala

This month's Unlocking History video encourages viewers to learn more about the design and engineering feats of Stephen De Ayala, who was incarcerated at the penitentiary in the late 19th century. This installment also includes excerpts from a present day interview with De Ayala's great-great granddaughter, Alexa Peregrim.

Sports at Eastern State

From solitary exercise to team activities, this month's video invites viewers to learn more about the important role of sports at Eastern State. This includes the penitentiary’s integrated baseball teams and legendary boxer turned Eastern State baseball player Charles “Jack” Blackburn.

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