The final day of operation for the Cell Block 7 Prison Museum will be December 29th.  The permanent closing was announced in a press release by the Ella Sharp Museum on Tuesday.

Director of the Michigan Department of Corrections Heidi Washington said, “We’re grateful for our partnership with the Ella Sharp Museum that led to the operation of Cell Block 7 as a place for visitors to learn more about the history, programs, and operations of state correctional facilities in Jackson.”

Cell Block 7 opened in 2014 and during its 5 years of operation hosted more than 35,000 visitors from all over the world.

Operational struggles including decreasing financial support, staffing, and maintenance challenges were cited in the decision to close the facility.  Despite closing Cell Block 7, Ella Sharp Museum will continue to collect prison artifacts, documents, and photographs.

Cell Block 7 will still host visitors through the closing date.  Hours of operation are Friday through Sunday from 10:00 AM until 5:00 Pm.