Overview of Anamosa State Penitentiary
Anamosa State Penitentiary is Iowa’s largest maximum-security prison, housing around 950 inmates. Built in 1872, this facility is known for its stone fortress-like structure and serves as a medium/maximum-security prison for adult males. Inmates at Anamosa include those convicted of serious crimes, including violent felonies, and many are serving life sentences. The penitentiary has a rich and, at times, troubled history, including notable moments of violence, such as the 2021 inmate attack that left two staff members dead. Beyond its security role, Anamosa State Penitentiary offers a range of rehabilitative programs, including educational opportunities and vocational training in Iowa Prison Industries
Contact Information for Anamosa State Penitentiary
- Address: 406 North High Street, Anamosa, IA 52205
- Phone: (319) 462-3504
- Email: N/A (for inquiries, contact the Iowa Department of Corrections website)
Visiting Information for Anamosa State Penitentiary
Visiting inmates at Anamosa State Penitentiary is allowed under strict guidelines. Visits can be conducted in-person or via video conferencing. In-person visits are available on weekends (Saturday and Sunday) from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., while video visits are held on Mondays and Fridays. Each visit lasts two hours for in-person visits and 50 minutes for video visits. Visitors must schedule their appointments in advance using the Ameelio App.
When visiting, it is important to bring a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license. Be prepared for security screenings, as visitors are subject to searches upon entry. The visitation area has a strict dress code, so check the penitentiary’s rules before arrival
How to Book a Visit to Anamosa State Penitentiary
To book a visit at Anamosa State Penitentiary, you must use the Ameelio App for both in-person and video visits. When booking, you will need the inmate’s name and identification number. Be sure to schedule in advance as the prison maintains strict visitation rules. Up to four visitors are allowed per inmate, and all must be approved beforehand. Visits offer a chance to speak with inmates in a secure environment, providing families an opportunity to reconnect(
Directions and Parking Information for Anamosa State Penitentiary
Anamosa State Penitentiary is located in the small town of Anamosa, Iowa. To get there, use Highway 151, and take the North High Street exit. Parking is available on-site, with designated areas for visitors. There is no public transportation to the facility, so visitors should plan to drive. The prison’s towering limestone walls are a defining feature of the town, making the facility hard to miss
Life Inside Anamosa State Penitentiary and Latest News
Life inside Anamosa State Penitentiary is structured and focused on rehabilitation, though it remains a maximum-security environment. The prison offers education programs through Kirkwood Community College, providing inmates with the opportunity to earn a GED or college credits. Iowa Prison Industries also operates within the facility, where inmates can gain work experience in industries like woodworking, metal furniture production, and even license plate manufacturing
However, prison life can be tough, and security incidents are not uncommon. In 2021, the penitentiary was thrust into the spotlight following an attempted escape that resulted in the deaths of two staff members. This tragic event highlighted ongoing concerns about overcrowding and staff shortages within Iowa’s prison system
Famous Prisoners at Anamosa State Penitentiary
Anamosa State Penitentiary has housed several notorious criminals over the years. Some of the most infamous inmates include:
- John Wayne Gacy: Before becoming one of America’s most notorious serial killers, Gacy was incarcerated at Anamosa in the late 1960s for sodomy charges
- Harry Edward Greenwell: Posthumously identified as the “I-65 Killer,” Greenwell served time at Anamosa for burglary
- Robert Hansen: Known as the “Butcher Baker,” Hansen was imprisoned here in the early 1960s for arson before gaining infamy for his serial killings in Alaska
FAQs About Anamosa State Penitentiary
1. How do I contact Anamosa State Penitentiary? You can contact the penitentiary at (319) 462-3504, or by visiting the Iowa Department of Corrections website for more information.
2. What are the visiting hours at Anamosa State Penitentiary? In-person visits are available on weekends from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., while video visits are held on Mondays and Fridays.
3. How do I book a visit to Anamosa State Penitentiary? Visits must be scheduled through the Ameelio App, where you will need the inmate’s details to complete the booking.
4. Is there parking available at Anamosa State Penitentiary? Yes, there is ample on-site parking for visitors at the penitentiary.
5. What security measures are in place for visitors? All visitors are subject to security screenings, including metal detectors and pat-downs. Strict dress codes and conduct rules apply.
6. What type of inmates are housed at Anamosa State Penitentiary? Anamosa houses male inmates convicted of serious offenses, including violent felonies, with a significant portion serving life sentences.
7. What education programs are offered at Anamosa? Inmates can access education programs through Kirkwood Community College, including GED classes and vocational training.
8. Who are some famous prisoners that have been held at Anamosa? Notable inmates include serial killers John Wayne Gacy and Robert Hansen, as well as the “I-65 Killer” Harry Greenwell.
9. What is the history of Anamosa State Penitentiary? Established in 1872, Anamosa was originally designed to ease overcrowding at Fort Madison and has grown into Iowa’s largest maximum-security prison.
10. How do I get to Anamosa State Penitentiary? The prison is located in Anamosa, Iowa, off Highway 151. Follow signs to North High Street for direct access.
Summary and Conclusion
Anamosa State Penitentiary stands as a historic institution in Iowa, known for its maximum-security population and infamous former inmates. While the facility maintains strict security protocols, it also emphasizes rehabilitation through educational and vocational programs. Visitors can reconnect with inmates during scheduled visits, but should be prepared for stringent procedures. For those interested in the history of the prison, the Anamosa State Penitentiary Museum offers an in-depth look at the facility’s past. To learn more, visit the Iowa Department of Corrections website(
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Sources:
- Iowa Department of Corrections: doc.iowa.gov
- Wikipedia: en.wikipedia.org
- Prison Handbook: prisonhandbook.com
- Only In Your State: onlyinyourstate.com