Debtors' Prison

The Debtors' Prison is a two-story building with barred windows and heavy wooden doors located across from the Accomack County Courthouse. Its interior follows the hall and parlor design, a residential layout that specialists study for understanding period construction methods.

The building was constructed in 1783 as a residence for the county jailer. It became a prison for debtors in 1842 and served that purpose until it was eventually closed.

The building shows how debt became a crime leading to imprisonment in the 1800s and who suffered these consequences. Walking through helps visitors understand the human cost of unpaid money.

The building retains its original architectural features, including barred windows and period woodwork throughout. Visitors should expect narrow passages and dim interior lighting, so comfortable shoes and a light source are helpful.

This building is part of a very small group, with only three debtor prisons across the entire United States listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its survival demonstrates how differently debt was treated as a legal and social problem in America.

Location: Accomac

GPS coordinates: 37.71861,-75.66722

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:24