Built in the Greek Revival style, this was Simpson County, Kentucky’s fourth jail, the first being built in 1819. The unique style of the Old Jail is based on a medieval fortress; the design combined psychological deterrence to crime and provided an escape-proof enclosure. The jail operated from 1860 thru 1879. And acted as the jailer’s residence after that time. During the Civil War, it housed Confederate prisoners, some of whom left graffiti on its walls.
The Old Jail is located in Franklin, Kentucky, near the Tennessee border.
