The Big House Season 1 Episodes

Episode 1

Alcatraz

Used originally as a military prison, the island housed the worst of the worst criminals.

Episode 2

Eastern State Penitentiary

Tue, Oct 13, 1998

This prison, where penitents were driven mad, was finally closed after years of riots.

Episode 3

Sing Sing

Wed, Oct 14, 1998

The legendary New York prison ranks as one of America's most unsavory detention centers.

Episode 4

Leavenworth

Thu, Oct 15, 199844 mins

An exclusive look at America's first federal prison. Operating since 1895, Leavenworth has had its share of notoriety - from The Birdman of Alcatraz and exciting escapes to bloody riots and escalating violence.

Episode 5

Folsom

Mon, Jan 18, 199944 mins

An inside-the-walls look at the violent history of Folsom Prison, which opened in 1880. Perhaps most famous for "Folsom Prison Blues" by Johnny Cash and being home to Charles Manson.

Episode 6

Alderson Federal Womens Prison

45 mins

The history of the first federal women's prison, which opened in West Virginia in 1928.

Episode 7

San Quentin

Wed, Jan 20, 1999

Step inside California's oldest prison, which called for permanent solitary confinement. Another prison made famous by Johnny Cash.

Episode 8

Mcneil Island

Wed, Jan 12, 200044 mins

McNeil Island, an isolated fortress rising from Puget Sound's chilly waters 40 miles south of Seattle, has been the scene of daring escapes and intense violence and home to train robbers, gangsters, and even politicians. Interviewees include a former inmate who attempted to escape and former wardens. Paul Sorvino narrates.