It was one of 61 field unit prisons renovated or built during the late 1930's to house inmates who worked building roads. The prison's original housing dormitory remains in use. A modular dormitory was added in 1978. The new dormitory, dining hall and multipurpose building opened in 1992.
Inmates work in a number of jobs.
They may be assigned to Department of Transportation road crews or to maintenance or kitchen duties at the prison. Inmates nearing parole may participate in work release, leaving the prison for the part of the day to work for a business in the community. Anson community College works with the prison to provide vocational classes in carpentry, cooking and brickmasonry. Classes for adult education and for GED tests preparation are also available. Inmates may participate in study release or substance abuse treatment programs.