About
The Burlington County Prison Museum is a National Historic Landmark located in historic Mount Holly. Designed by Robert Mills, one of America 's first native-born and trained architects, the Burlington County Prison was completed in 1811. One of Robert Mills' first designs as an independent architect, the interior vaulted ceilings of poured concrete and brick and stone construction made the building virtually fireproof. In fact, it was so well constructed that it remained in constant use until 1965.
Trip Details
Price: All $5
PAYMENT DUE DATE: July 5th
Recommended for 3rd -12th graders though all may attend
The day at Burlington Prison includes:
Private Guided Tour
Escape Game
Step into the shoes of a safecracker who managed to breakout in 1933. You will be given a case full of clues. Once you figure out the combination to open the case, you are on your way throughout the Jail to find other clues leading to your ultimate "escape". A team of up to four can work from one "escape case".
Additional Information
Visa and Mastercard accepted at gift shop - not American Express or Discover. The shop sells a variety of books, tee shirts, coffee mugs, and other souvenirs.
Visitors may take photographs.
Children are welcome to visit the museum. The audio and live tours, and some of the exhibits, contain stories about executions by hanging and inmates who committed violent acts such as rape and murder. Parents should use their discretion in deciding whether or not their child is mature enough to hear about these things. If a live tour is given to a group of youngsters, the tour guide will make every attempt to adjust the tour for the age group. Children must be supervised so that they do not hurt themselves or damage the building by running or touching displays, walls or doors.
There is an elevator which makes the first floor accessible to those who cannot use stairs. For further information, call the Parks Department at 609-265-5828.
Commitment books, records of prisoners who were incarcerated, exist from about 1870 to 1965 and are kept by Burlington County along with other county records. Those wishing to view them can make arrangements through the Parks Department. Call 609-265-5828 during business hours.
Visitors can spend as long as they like in the museum. Those that use audio tours listen to 18 “stops” which generally takes 45 to 90 minutes.
There is usually plenty of parking on High Street and a small parking lot adjacent to the museum. There is also a large parking lot (adjacent to the County buildings) about two blocks away.
Those who wish to pack a lunch are free to use picnic tables which are in the Exercise Yard.
The museum is considered haunted.