Unveiling the Secrets of the Abandoned Broward Correctional Institution

by edin chavez | Oct 9, 2023 | Abandoned, Florida

Exploring the Forgotten: Unveiling the Secrets of the Abandoned Broward Correctional Institution

PLEASE DO NOT EMAIL ME OR CALL ME ABOUT GETTING INTO THIS PLACE. THE PLACE IS NO LONGER THERE. IT HAS BEEN TORN DOWN.

PART 2 To see part one click here.

Abandoned Broward Correctional Institution: Exploring the Haunting Remains

Broward Correctional Institution, located in South Florida, has a rich and intriguing history. Originally opened in 1977 as a male prison, it was later converted into a maximum-security facility for women.The prison served as a reception center for female inmates and housed female death row inmates until 2003. Throughout its operation, Broward Correctional Institution housed some notorious and infamous inmates, including Aileen Wuornos and Judy Buenoano.

Broward Correctional Institution’s history is a testament to the various roles it played in the Florida prison system. Its transformation from a male prison to a facility dedicated to housing female inmates speaks to the changing needs and demographics of the state’s correctional system. The presence of high-profile inmates like Aileen Wuornos and Judy Buenoano adds an extra layer of intrigue to the institution’s past.

In 2012, Broward Correctional Institution was closed down due to cost-cutting measures and a decline in prison admissions. The property was eventually sold to the city of Pembroke Pines, which chose to demolish the facility and replace it with a facility for vehicle maintenance and repairs. The closure of the prison marked the end of an era, leaving behind an eerie and captivating site waiting to be explored.

The decision to close and demolish Broward Correctional Institution raises questions about the future of abandoned prisons. What happens to these once bustling, now empty, structures? Are they left to decay, or can they find new life and purpose? In the case of Broward Correctional Institution, the decision was made to repurpose the land for a different municipal need. This raises interesting possibilities for other abandoned prisons and the potential for adaptive reuse in the future.

Urban exploration (urbex) photography provides a unique opportunity to capture the haunting beauty and decay of abandoned prisons like Broward Correctional Institution. The crumbling infrastructure, overgrown vegetation, and eerie atmosphere create a captivating setting for photographers to document and tell the stories of these forgotten places. Urbex photographers can capture the contrast between the harsh reality of prison life and the serenity that has now engulfed these abandoned facilities.

Abandoned Broward Correctional Institution

One example of urbex photography at an abandoned prison is the work of Seph Lawless, a renowned photographer known for capturing abandoned and decaying places. Lawless’s photographs of the Ohio State Reformatory, a former prison, evoke a sense of history, loss, and desolation. The images showcase the crumbling architecture, peeling paint, and remnants of daily life inside the prison, providing a glimpse into a world that was once teeming with activity.

Exploring abandoned prisons comes with its fair share of challenges and risks. These facilities are often in a state of disrepair, with hazards such as unstable structures, broken glass, and exposed wiring. Additionally, the presence of asbestos or other harmful substances may pose health risks. Trespassing on private property can also lead to legal consequences. It is essential for urbex photographers to prioritize their safety and obtain proper permissions when accessing these locations.

To mitigate some of the risks associated with exploring abandoned prisons, it is crucial for photographers to do thorough research and come prepared. This includes wearing appropriate clothing and footwear, carrying essential safety equipment such as flashlights and first aid kits, and informing someone of their location and expected return time. By taking these precautions and being aware of potential dangers, urbex photographers can safely and responsibly explore these captivating sites.

Entering abandoned prisons without permission is generally considered trespassing and can lead to legal consequences. It is crucial to respect the property rights of owners and seek permission before exploring these sites. Some locations may have specific rules or regulations regarding photography, so it is important to research and adhere to any restrictions in place. By obtaining proper permissions and respecting the law, urbex photographers can ensure a responsible and legal exploration of these abandoned prisons.

One example of a legally explored abandoned prison is the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia. The prison now operates as a museum and welcomes visitors who are interested in learning about its history and the stories of the inmates who once lived there. This demonstrates that with the right permissions and a commitment to following the rules, urbex photographers can gain access to abandoned prisons and capture their haunting beauty without breaking the law.

To capture compelling prison photos, urbex photographers should pay attention to details that evoke the atmosphere and history of the space. The decaying architecture, peeling paint, and remnants of daily life inside the prison can all make for powerful images. Experimenting with different angles and perspectives can help convey a sense of the space’s scale and isolation. The use of lighting techniques, such as natural light streaming through broken windows or the play of shadows, can add depth and drama to the photographs. Ultimately, the goal is to capture the essence and emotional impact of these abandoned prisons through the lens.

Abandoned Broward Correctional Institution

One notable example of a compelling prison photo is “Cell Block D” by photographer Mark Boster. The photograph, taken at the now-closed Ohio State Reformatory, captures the eerie and desolate atmosphere of the abandoned prison. The image showcases the decaying infrastructure, the peeling paint, and the empty cells, evoking a sense of the lives that were once confined within those walls.

Broward Correctional Institution housed some infamous inmates during its operation, including Aileen Wuornos and Judy Buenoano. Aileen Wuornos, known as “The Florida Highway Killer,” was a convicted serial killer who murdered seven men. Judy Buenoano, also known as the “Black Widow,” was convicted of murdering her husband and paralyzed son, as well as attempting to murder her fiancé. These notorious inmates left a dark mark on the history of Broward Correctional Institution.

The presence of infamous inmates like Aileen Wuornos and Judy Buenoano adds to the intrigue and fascination surrounding Broward Correctional Institution. These individuals were responsible for heinous crimes that shocked the nation and left lasting impacts on the communities in which they occurred.

Aileen Wuornos was executed in 2002 for her crimes. Her troubled upbringing, which included sexual assault and abuse, and her criminal activities before becoming a serial killer, have made her a subject of fascination in true crime circles. Judy Buenoano, on the other hand, was executed in 1998. Known for her history of insurance fraud and poisoning her victims with arsenic, Buenoano’s crimes earned her the moniker “Black Widow.”

The stories of Aileen Wuornos and Judy Buenoano serve as a reminder of the darkness that can exist within individuals and the potential for evil to manifest itself in unexpected ways. Their time at Broward Correctional Institution represents a chapter in the prison’s history that will forever be linked to their crimes.

Currently, Broward Correctional Institution no longer stands as it once did. The facility was demolished after its closure in 2012, making way for a new purpose as a facility for vehicle maintenance and repairs. The eerie remnants and memories of the prison have been replaced with new infrastructure, erasing the physical traces of its haunting past.

Abandoned Broward Correctional Institution

The transformation of Broward Correctional Institution from a prison to a facility for vehicle maintenance and repairs marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. It is a reminder that even abandoned places can find new life and purpose. The site that was once home to the incarcerated now serves a practical function in the community.

Visitors should not attempt to enter Broward Correctional Institution without permission. The property is monitored by the police, and trespassing can lead to legal consequences. It is important to respect the property rights of the city of Pembroke Pines and obtain proper permissions if access to the site is desired.

While it may be tempting to explore abandoned prisons like Broward Correctional Institution, it is crucial to do so responsibly and legally. By seeking permission and respecting the rules and regulations in place, visitors can ensure a safe and respectful exploration of these haunting remains.

In conclusion, Broward Correctional Institution holds a captivating history and offers a haunting backdrop for urbex photographers. While the prison may no longer stand, its legacy and the stories of its notable inmates continue to intrigue and fascinate. However, it is essential to approach abandoned prisons with caution, respect, and a commitment to legal and ethical exploration. By doing so, we can honor the past while also appreciating the beauty and mystery that comes with exploring these abandoned sites.

Abandoned Broward Correctional Institution

Abandoned Hospital

by edin chavez | Apr 15, 2017 | Florida, Photography location maps, Video, VLOG

I had the chance to check out this hospital before they completely demolish it. It is really cool and wide open. If you get a chance you should stop by and explore.

Abandoned Boomers Florida

by edin chavez | Jul 6, 2016 | Abandoned, Florida, Miami, Photo Series

When I heard that Boomers was coming down, I had to take a trip there to photograph it. What you see below are photos from three different trips, shot from a helicopter and the oldschool way walking around with my camera.

This type of places always creep me out, but this one was not that creepy, it was just kind of sad how operations just stoped and the place kind of just stood empty for a long time in hopes that someoene would purchase it and keep it going.

I managed to climb up the roller coaster and that was super scary, it got so steap and hard to walk that I had a baby panic attack, but it didn’t latst long. I usually never post so many photos, but in this case as with all my other abandoned photo series I thought I would give you lots to look at.

People tell me that this was the happening spot back in the day, did you ever come here? Id love to hear some sotries. If you visited it drop me a line on the comments below.

Abandoned Greece 2004 Summer Olympics Athens

by edin chavez | May 12, 2016 | Abandoned, Greece

How can you forget about the 2004 Summer Olympics. I mean it has been a massive deal for a very long time. I have heard about this place for years now, and I have always wanted to visit. When I visited Athens I finally had the opportunity to check it out. Designed by one of my favorite architects Santiago Calatrava.

It was not until my last day in Athens that I made a trip down there. Actually I was on the way to the airport when I made a pit stop to see and photograph this place. I didn’t have time to visit all the other spots such as the Baseball stadium, Tennis courts and other swimming pools, but I did cover quite a bit of ground. I tried to go into the main stadium but unfortunately could not get in.

When you first get off the train, you get this really weird feeling, its quiet and somber. Walking in I could imagine the crowds of people rushing through the gates to see their country compete. It was just imagining, because the place is a ghost town.

At first view the place does not look that bad, but as you start exploring deeper and deeper you can see how the place was left to decay. I went into some rooms that were really destroyed, super creepy specially since this particular day was overcast and cold.

Recently the Greek government has stepped in and started slowly fixing it up and using it again. Talking to some locals they were very happy about the changes. Unfortunately you can still see and feel the emptiness of this place.

Do you have any memories of this place? Did you attend any of the games? Did you experience its rise and fall? I would love to hear some stories about this incredible place. If you have any please leave them on the comments below.

Black and White Photography tips

by edin chavez | Nov 7, 2014 | Black & White, educational, Informational, People, Street photography, Tips and Tricks, Tutorials

Black and White Photography tips:

Here are some tips on how to make a beautiful Black and White photograph. I live by this when shooting Black and White.

1. When shooting B&W photography it’s important that you learn to see in black and white. Remember you don’t have color to draw the eye when shooting B&W photography, so you have to find shapes and tones to compose your photo. Study the colors and study the your environment picture all the gray tones and picture everything in B&W. I will keep it short and sweet. If you have any others please share on the comments below.

2. Always shoot in color, it is important that you always shoot in color. Most cameras out there have a B&W setting DO NOT USE IT. If you shoot everything in color you will have more control of the gray scale in post production once you convert it.

The Man In White

3. Always use the lowest ISO setting possible. This will get rid of the noise in the photograph and you will end up with a great clear photograph. If you are looking for noise do it in post production. I like to add noise to (some) B&W but I always do it in post production that way I still have a very high resolution high quality photo.

4. Always shoot RAW, most DSLRS shoot in RAW (and any camera now a days), again this gives you more control of the image in post production thus making a better B&W photograph. If you don’t have this setting on your camera, don’t worry, you can still make an amazing B&W photograph shooting JPEG.

5. Contrast is very important when shooting B&W photography, it sets the mood it, it defines your lines, it brings out shapes and shadows you would never be able to see in color photography. Play around with it and make it work for you.