The historic jail in Jasper, GA was in use from 1906 – 1982 and it is listed on the National Historic Register.
Old Pickens County Jail
This unique historic jail in North Georgia shows the architectural layout of classic jails of that time: Living quarters on the first floor for the sheriff and his family with the cell blocks occupying the second story. The steel jail equipment was furnished and constructed by Pauley Jail Building Co. of St. Louis, MO. The exceptional marble and brick exterior was completed by local artisans at a cost of $28,631.30. The marble being one of the major products of North Georgia was delivered from Southern Mill in Marble Hill, GA.
Over the years, additional fortification was needed for the jail house. In 1937 the steel window guards as well as the steel grated masonry doors and frames were added. Again in 1957 additional window guards were completed. The locks needed to be changed several times until in 1982 the facility was closed. The jail used to house usually more prisoners than the sixteen bed cellblock should have accommodated. One court week it is known that there were thirty prisoners in the jail. After closing in 1982 two prisoners were moved from the jail to another facility.
Today the building inhabits the Old Jail museum that is open weekends March through November. Among the most recent additions to the Museum’s displays is the 1906 construction plan and contract.
October 4th/5th 2014 the 34th Annual Georgia Marble Festival takes place in Jasper, GA including a 5k run, an art & craft market, a parade and much more. See details on Atlanta Expat Georgia Marble Festival Tip.
Plan your visit:
- Address: 141 North Main Street, Jasper, GA USA 30143
- Open on Saturday & Sunday from 2PM – 5PM (except December – February and Easter Sunday)
- Private tours available for groups of six or more.
- Website: www.marblevalley.org
- Phone 706-253-1141