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Old Clay County Jail

The second oldest jail in Florida gives insight into the realities of the criminal justice system at the turn of the 20th century.

Green Cove Springs, Florida

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Built in 1894 to replace the previous jail, this site served as the county jail until 1972. Equipped with 16 cells, including a maximum-security wing on the second floor, it housed a variety of inmates including juveniles and adults, men and women.

The jail was the site of seven executions, all by hanging, and at least two escapes, though, neither prisoner successfully made it through the front door, managing only to escape their cells. It's the executions especially that cause some to believe the jail is haunted, eventually inspiring the television show Ghost Hunters to film an episode on site. 

Interestingly enough, the company that built the jail, Pauly Jail Company, is still in operation, focused primarily on maximum security facilities.

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Haunted Crime And Punishment Jails

Know Before You Go

Contact the Clay County Archivists to schedule a tour. Tours are free and can include the Archives, Museum/Railroad Depot, TAPS Military Monument and 1890 Historic Courthouse upon request.

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Published

August 9, 2024

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