Arizona State Parks

Arizona State Parks - Press Release

ARIZONA STATE PARKS
For Immediate Release
Managing and conserving Arizona's natural, cultural and recreational resources for the benefit of the people, both in our Parks and through our Partnerships.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Ellen Bilbrey at (602) 542-1996 or (602) 228-8518, or Monica Enriquez at (602) 542-6997… both at pio at azstateparks.gov
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Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park Presents Haunted Tours

(Yuma, Arizona - October 18, 2007) - Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park hosts a special night of evening tours on Saturday, October 27 beginning at 6 p.m.

The prisoner's crimes ranged from murder to polygamy (grand larceny was the most frequent crime committed). Despite an infamous reputation, written evidence indicates the Prison was humanely administered and a model institution for its time. Although State Parks staff reject the idea of haunting, they acknowledge that in life some inmates liked the prison so much that they neither left nor stayed away. A fellow by the name of Rose, sentenced to life for murder, refused to leave the prison grounds after he was paroled by Governor Murphy. On October 8, 1901, prison officials assisted him through the prison gates. Come see if he's still lurking in the cells!

Seven inmates died during an escape attempt known as the Gates Riot, which was not the only unsuccessful escape witnessed at the prison, although it certainly was the deadliest. Hear this and other spirited stories of former inmates as they haunt the cells telling their crimes and punishments.

Participants must have a reservation for a tour. Call Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park at (928) 783-4771 to make a reservation or for more information. Admission is $5. Take I-8 to Yuma, take Exit 1 to Giss Parkway, turn at Prison Hill Road. The park is open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For information about Arizona State Parks call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit the website at www.azstateparks.com.

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