Concord Correctional Facility Overview
The Concord Correctional Facility, formerly known as MCI-Concord, was a historic medium-security prison located in Concord, Massachusetts. Established in 1878, it was the oldest running men’s prison in Massachusetts until its closure in 2024. MCI-Concord primarily housed male offenders and was used as a diagnostic and reception center for the state, handling prisoner evaluations before assignment to other facilities. It gained notoriety for its long history, significant prison riots, and rehabilitation programs, including Timothy Leary’s famous prison experiments. The facility was closed due to a decrease in the state’s prison population and rising maintenance costs.
Concord Correctional Facility Contact Information
Although Concord Correctional Facility is now closed, prior to its closure, it was located at:
Address: 965 Elm St, Concord, MA 01742
Phone: (978) 369-1430 (historical)
Email: The facility no longer handles inquiries following its official closure in 2024.
Visiting Information for Concord Correctional Facility
Before its closure, visiting hours at Concord Correctional Facility were regulated, typically allowing family and friends to meet with inmates during specific hours on weekends and holidays. Visitors had to follow strict protocols, including presenting valid government-issued identification and adhering to a dress code. Visits were limited to a certain number of attendees per prisoner, often up to three, depending on the prisoner’s status. Visits lasted 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the facility’s capacity.
How to Book a Visit to Concord Correctional Facility
To book a visit to Concord Correctional Facility, visitors were required to call ahead to secure a time slot. Booking required providing the inmate’s full name and prisoner ID, along with personal identification. Visitors also had to follow procedures to ensure that items brought into the facility met security guidelines, such as bringing limited personal belongings and no electronic devices.
How to Get to Concord Correctional Facility
Concord Correctional Facility was located about 25 miles from Boston, making it accessible by car via MA-2 W and I-95 N. There was on-site parking available for visitors. Public transportation options were limited, so driving was the most practical way to reach the prison.
Life Inside Concord Correctional Facility
For inmates, life inside Concord Correctional Facility was shaped by its long history and the range of services offered. It operated as both a general medium-security prison and a reception center for newly sentenced men. Educational and vocational programs aimed at rehabilitation were available. However, the prison had a history of unrest, including multiple riots from the late 19th century through the 1970s, and more recently, overcrowding issues. Prisoners dealt with strict routines, and rehabilitation was a focus for many during their time at the facility.
In the news, MCI-Concord has been noted for its closure in 2024, following Governor Maura Healey’s budget initiatives that focused on reducing the number of state prison facilities in response to a declining inmate population.
Famous Prisoners at Concord Correctional Facility
Throughout its history, Concord Correctional Facility housed several high-profile inmates. These included:
- Malcolm X, who spent 15 months in the Concord Reformatory, part of the facility’s earlier history.
- John Geoghan, a defrocked priest involved in the Roman Catholic sex abuse scandal.
- Leeland Eisenberg, known for holding Hillary Clinton’s campaign workers hostage in 2007.
- Cameron Lacroix, a hacker best known for hacking into Paris Hilton’s Sidekick account.
- Joseph Barboza, a notorious mob hitman for the Patriarca crime family.
FAQs about Concord Correctional Facility
Is Concord Correctional Facility still open?
No, the facility officially closed in July 2024 due to a decline in the prison population and the high costs of maintaining the aging prison.How can I visit an inmate at Concord Correctional Facility?
The prison is closed, so no visitations are possible.What kind of inmates were housed at Concord Correctional Facility?
Concord primarily held medium-security male inmates and served as a diagnostic center for newly sentenced prisoners.What was the history of riots at Concord Correctional Facility?
The facility experienced several notable riots, including in 1882, 1959, and the 1970s, reflecting the challenging conditions over its long history.Who was the most famous inmate at Concord Correctional Facility?
Malcolm X is perhaps the most notable former inmate, having served time at the Concord Reformatory.What were the visiting hours at Concord Correctional Facility?
Prior to closure, visits were allowed on weekends and holidays, with strict regulations on scheduling and the number of visitors.Why did Concord Correctional Facility close?
The prison closed in 2024 due to a decrease in the inmate population and the high cost of maintaining the historic facility.What programs were available at Concord Correctional Facility?
The facility offered vocational, educational, and rehabilitation programs for inmates.How can I find an inmate who was transferred from Concord?
Inmates were transferred to other state facilities. You can contact the Massachusetts Department of Correction for specific inmate locations.What will happen to the Concord Correctional Facility property?
The future of the property has not been decided, but its historic significance suggests it may be repurposed or redeveloped.
Conclusion
Concord Correctional Facility was a cornerstone of Massachusetts’ penal system for nearly 150 years. Though it has closed, its legacy remains through its notable inmates and role in prison reform and rehabilitation efforts. The future of the site is still under consideration, but its place in history is well established. For more details, you can explore the Massachusetts Department of Correction’s updates on this and other facilities.
Sources Used:
- WGBH News (wgbh.org)
- Massachusetts Correctional Institution – Concord, Wikipedia