Filming Location
Shawshank Prison

The Shawshank Prison scenes in “Shawshank Redemption” provide the backdrop for many of the film’s pivotal moments, from Andy’s first day to heartfelt conversations between characters. These scenes were shot in the United States, in the city of Mansfield, Ohio. Readers eager for a closer look at this iconic filming spot can reference the map pin icon in the navigation.

“Yeah, I Think It’d Be Fair To Say I Liked Andy From The Start.”

Red

Where were the Shawshank Prison scenes filmed?

Numerous key scenes around the Shawshank Penitentiary, particularly its prison yard were captured at the Ohio State Reformatory, Mansfield, Ohio, United States. Since the movie, many of the buildings that were part of the Ohio Reformatory have been demolished, but the main building remains intact.

More about Ohio State Reformatory

The Ohio State Reformatory (OSR), situated in Mansfield, Ohio, operated from 1886 to 1990 when it was closed following the ‘Boyd Consent Decree’ over concerns of overcrowding and inhumane conditions. The facility underwent several architectural designs under Levi T. Scofield, with the final outcome resembling a castle. The reformatory, initially named the Intermediate Penitentiary, aimed to rehabilitate young first-time offenders. It was constructed on land with historical significance, previously serving as Camp Mordecai Bartley for Civil War training. After its closure, the Mansfield Reformatory Preservation Society transformed it into a museum, offering various tours, including ghost tours and film history. The reformatory also hosts events such as the INKcarceration Music & Tattoo Festival and the Shawshank Hustle. Beyond its iconic role in “The Shawshank Redemption,” the facility has been a chosen location for numerous films, television shows, and music videos over the years.

Scenes filmed at Ohio State Reformatory

Andy’s Arrival at Shawshank
As the bus drives through the main gates and winds its way to the entrance, the prisoners, including Red, await the arrival of the “new fish”, placing bets on who might break first.

Andy’s Request to Red
In a quiet moment, Andy approaches Red, seeking a rock hammer. This interaction marks the beginning of their deepening bond.

Andy’s Gift to Red
To surprise his newfound friend, Andy procures a harmonica for Red, revealing he bypassed Red’s usual channels to ensure the gift remained a secret.

Music Over the Loudspeakers
In an act of defiance, Andy broadcasts a record over the prison’s PA system, allowing every inmate to experience a brief escape through the beauty of music.

Rooftop Conversation
While tarring the prison roof, Andy overhears Captain Hadley’s financial woes. He offers a solution to legally evade inheritance taxes, requesting beers for his fellow inmates in return. As they sip their drinks, a fleeting sensation of freedom washes over them.

Discussion of Freedom
Red and Andy sit together in the yard, discussing life and the concept of freedom. Andy shares his dream of Zihuatanejo and reveals a secret about an oak tree in Buxton, asking Red for a promise.

Tommy’s Fate
Tommy, a young inmate mentored by Andy, is led out to the yard to meet the warden. The conversation that unfolds seals Tommy’s tragic fate and reinforces the corruption within Shawshank.