BOTH SIDES OF THE WALL

BOTH SIDES OF THE WALL:
AUBURN & ITS PRISON

The Cayuga Museum's original exhibit entitled Both Sides of the Wall opened April 11, 2003, and ran through August 31, 2003. The display featured artifacts, photos, and memorabilia from Cayuga County's number one employer: the Auburn Correctional Facility. Built in 1816, the prison has played a vital role in the development of Auburn and the surrounding area, as well as the evolution of America's penal system. From the early days of the "Auburn System" through the first execution by electrocution to the more recent riots and state legislation, Both Sides of the Wall gives visitors a glimpse of history through the eyes of inmates and the men and women charged with their rehabilitation.

This exhibit has re-opened as a permanent display in one of our newly restored galleries on the museum's 2nd floor.

For a look at the exhibit guide and some photos of the opening, follow the link to the New York Correction History Society website. A special thanks to Tom McCarthy for all his hard work on these pages.