Gothic Jail

Built and completed in 1914, the Gothic Jail has the unique distinction of being the only penal institution in the country using "collegiate Gothic" design in the first decade of the 20th century. The structure is of reinforced concrete with a blasted finish. The walls are 13 to 21 inches thick and were poured into wooden molds. At the time of its construction the jail made history, not only for its unique design, but because each cell had a toilet , shower, lavatory and a window. Added to the National Historic Register in 1981. Celebrated in the song "The Hangman's Jail", the lockup was the location of a double execution in 1928. The jail and courthouse are connected by a tunnel used to transport prisoners out of public view.