Saving Columbia’s Forgotten Dungeons: Rick Fisher’s Mission to Preserve History
Beneath the bustling streets of Columbia, Pennsylvania, lies a hidden piece of American history—a series of six crumbling, windowless cells known locally as the Market House Dungeons. Built in 1836, these subterranean chambers were originally intended as storage for market vendors but were later converted into a jail that operated until the early 20th century. Today, they stand as eerie reminders of a bygone era, steeped in stories of crime, punishment, and even celebrity scandal.
A Dark and Storied Past
The dungeons have earned a reputation for mystery and intrigue. According to historian and paranormal investigator Rick Fisher, the cells once held some of America’s most famous figures. Among them was Thomas Edison, who allegedly spent a night behind bars after being arrested for speeding down Locust Street at a breakneck 20 miles per hour in his electric car. Another notorious occupant was John L. Sullivan, the legendary bare-knuckle boxing champion, who reportedly sobered up in one of the dank cells after a night of heavy drinking.
The dungeons were eventually closed by the Board of Health in the early 1900s and repurposed for produce storage. But their grim history—and rumors of hauntings—continue to captivate locals and visitors alike. Fisher notes that the site is “rumored to be haunted,” adding to its allure for history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts.
The Restoration Effort
Time has not been kind to the dungeons. The walls are crumbling, paint is peeling, and the original wooden floors have long since disappeared. Recognizing the urgency, the Columbia Historical Preservation Society, with Rick Fisher at the forefront, has launched a grassroots campaign to restore the space before it deteriorates beyond repair. Their vision includes:
- Structural repairs to stabilize the walls.
- New wooden flooring to replace what was lost.
- Interpretive panels and historically accurate displays to educate visitors.
- Preservation of authenticity—keeping the raw, jail-like atmosphere intact rather than making it “pretty.”
The estimated cost for the project is modest—around $4,000—and the society is committed to funding it through donations and community events, not government money. So far, about $1,000 has been raised through flea markets, lectures, and other local initiatives.
Rick Fisher: The Man Behind the Mission
Rick Fisher is no stranger to the strange. A former owner of the National Museum of Natural Mysteries and a prolific paranormal investigator, Fisher has dedicated years to uncovering and preserving Columbia’s hidden history. His lecture series, including talks like “History of the Dungeons”, draws crowds eager to learn about the site’s colorful past and spectral legends. These events not only educate but also serve as vital fundraising opportunities for the restoration project.
Why It Matters
For Fisher and the Columbia Historical Preservation Society, the dungeons are more than a curiosity—they’re a tangible link to the borough’s heritage. “We want to preserve them before any more damage occurs,” Fisher says. “If we don’t do something now, this piece of history will be gone forever”.
Visiting the Dungeons
Once restored, the dungeons will offer visitors a rare glimpse into 19th-century justice—and perhaps a brush with the supernatural. Tours are already available on a limited basis, and future plans include educational displays and possibly themed events. For those brave enough to descend into the shadows, the experience promises chills, history, and a story you won’t soon forget. [discovercolumbia.com]
Want to get involved?
- Visit Columbia’s historic Dungeons at the The Historic Columbia Market House . Guided and self guided tours are held every Saturday at 11AM,12PM and 1PM.Tours are free, donations are appreciated and go towards the Dungeon Restoration Project – Columbia, Pennsylvania.
