Franklin County Jail, Museum in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, United States.
Franklin County Jail is a museum housed in the original correctional building with stone walls, iron bars, and numerous cells distributed across two levels. The spaces preserve the layout and equipment used in an early 20th-century prison.
The building was constructed in 1905 and served as a working county jail for many decades. Its transformation into a museum and listing on the National Register of Historic Places reflects its shift from an operational facility to a cultural institution.
The facility reveals how the justice system operated in the past and what methods were used to confine prisoners. The exhibits show how views about punishment and prison conditions evolved over time.
Guided tours are available Monday through Saturday, and advance reservations are recommended for groups. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since exploring the building involves climbing stairs and navigating uneven floors.
The building still contains original isolation cells where prisoners were held under harsh conditions. These spaces showcase one of the most severe forms of historical punishment and remain accessible to visitors today.
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