Brushy State Penitentiary was built in 1896. It was crafted of wood and built by the very prisoners that were to be confined within its walls upon completion. The location of Brushy State, amid a mountain range, was chosen specifically because it was thought that the hostile location would help to reduce escape attempts. Prisoners were used for free labor in the area’s coal mines. The prison was rebuilt using stone in the 1920s, with the new building taking on an eerie cross-like shape. It was operational until 1972 when it was closed due to the prison guards going on strike. The strike was reportedly due to what the guards felt were unsafe working conditions.
The prison reopened in 1976 and remained operational until it closed for good in 2009. Upon its final closure, all current inmates were transferred to Morgan County Correctional Complex.
Within its many years of operation, Brushy State experienced its fair share of tragedy and death — many of which lead to hauntings and a general feeling of unrest within the walls. Here are a few of the many active spirits that can be found at Brushy.
Waterhead
This ghost is thought to be the spirit of a prisoner who died while working in the cafeteria. He nearly had his arm severed by the attack that took his life.
Bonnie
Bonnie is a single female ghost that dwells within the walls of Brushy State. She is the prison’s only female entity and little is known about her except that she is always eager to interact with investigators and guests.
James
James lives within the C block of the prison. He’s known for accepting cigarettes as gifts, smoking them whenever they are left, lit, for him within his cell.
Leroy
Leroy can be found in D block. During his time at the prison, he was known for being a bit of a bully and in death, not much has changed. He frequently follows investigators around the prison, alerting them to his presence.
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