Welcome to the Old Sebastian County Jail, an iconic piece of Greenwood, Arkansas’s rich history. Built between 1889 and 1891 by master mason Ike Kunkel, this two-story stone structure stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of the era. The stone used in its construction was quarried from nearby Backbone Mountain and transported by horse-drawn wagon, highlighting the resourcefulness and determination of the local community.
The jail was primarily used as a holding facility for detainees awaiting transport to the larger facilities in Fort Smith. Despite its modest size, the jail played a crucial role in the administration of justice in Sebastian County. It housed a variety of inmates, from those guilty of minor infractions like drunkenness to more serious offenders, including murderers. Interestingly, the jail also occasionally served as a temporary home for mental patients when local hospitals were full.
Inside, visitors can still see the original iron doors and the intricate stonework that has withstood the test of time. The jail cells, with their heavy iron doors and thick stone walls, tell stories of past occupants through the messages they scratched into the walls and floors. These inscriptions offer a poignant glimpse into the lives and thoughts of those who were once confined here.
In 1966, after years of inactivity, the building was transformed into a museum by the South Sebastian County Historical Society. Today, it serves as a window into the past, housing exhibits that detail the history of Greenwood, the local coal mining industry, and the Battle of Devil’s Backbone Mountain Ridge. The museum is open to the public from May through October, offering a fascinating journey through the area’s history.
The Old Sebastian County Jail is not just a building; it is a cornerstone of the community’s heritage. It stands proudly on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring that its stories continue to be told for generations to come.
