Once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, Eastern State Penitentiary stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cell blocks and empty guard towers. This was the world's first true "penitentiary", a prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of prisoners. The penitentiary was known for its system of strict isolation and its grant architecture. It became a model for over 300 prisons worldwide. The original prison was built 1822-1836 and closed in 1971. Charles Williams, a farmer sentenced to two years for theft, would be inmate number one. On October 23, 1829, Williams was escorted into the new prison with an eyeless hood placed over his head. This was done to secure his anonymity and eventual integration into society upon release, as no one would recognize his face from the prison. But it also served another purpose: to ensure that there would be no chance at escape, as Williams would never see the prison beyond his private cell. Communication with guards was done through a small feeding hole. The inmates lived in complete isolation, with a Bible their only possession, and chores like shoemaking and weaving to occupy their time.