The Ohio State Penitentiary, often referred to as the Ohio Penitentiary, is situated in Columbus, Ohio, in close proximity to the Ohio State University campus. Established in 1834, it was one of the first state prisons in Ohio and has a long and complex history. The penitentiary was operational until 1990 and housed various inmates throughout its history, becoming notorious for its harsh conditions and overcrowding issues. Today, the site of the former prison has been redeveloped, but its legacy remains part of the narrative of Ohio's correctional history. The Ohio State Penitentiary is often referenced in discussions about criminal justice, historical preservation, and urban development within Columbus. While the facility is no longer functioning as a prison, the historical significance of the site continues to be a topic of interest for historians and urban explorers alike. The proximity of the penitentiary to Ohio State University adds an interesting dynamic to the area, as it reflects the broader themes of community, change, and social justice within the context of Columbus and Ohio's history.