Herkimer County Jail, Gefängnis in den Vereinigten Staaten
Herkimer County Jail is a historic prison building constructed from limestone blocks in 1835 in Herkimer, New York, with two main floors and a high basement. The facade features five sections across the front, a gabled roof with a small oval window near the peak, and decorative trim at the roofline that reflect early 19th century Federal architecture.
The facility was planned in 1834 and completed in 1835, serving as the county's prison for many decades before becoming a historical landmark. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, recognizing its importance as a witness to the region's legal and social history.
The jail holds stories of local figures like Chester Gillette, whose case became part of the region's collective memory and is shared during tours today. These narratives connect visitors to the lives and events that shaped the community over generations.
The building sits on North Main Street in Herkimer and is accessible through guided tours offered by the Herkimer County Historical Society, though some areas are currently undergoing restoration work. Visitors should know that not all sections of the facility are open, so checking ahead about available areas and tour schedules is recommended.
Some visitors report experiencing unexpected phenomena such as shadows and sounds within the building, which has sparked local speculation about supernatural presence. These tales have become part of the visitor experience and add an intriguing layer to exploring the site.
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