Despite its name, the Historic Pottawattamie County Squirrel Cage Jail in Council Bluffs, Iowa wasn’t an oversized trap for vermin. Instead, this unique historic building is one of only 18 revolving, rotary-style jails ever built.
While there is definitely an eerie energy to this jail-turned-museum, it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re passing through Council Bluffs. History buffs and ghost hunters like will enjoy exploring this interesting space. Wandering around the three-story jail, there’s definitely an eerie vibe with initials and messages scrawled on the walls with soot along with peeling paint and creaky stairs galore.
Keep reading to learn more about this unique style of jail and plan your visit to the Squirrel Cage Jail in Council Bluffs, whether you’re seeking out the paranormal or not.
The History of the Squirrel Cage Jail in Council Bluffs
Built in 1885 for $30,000, the Pottawattamie County Squirrel Cage Jail in Council Bluffs was in use until 1969. While a number of other “lazy Susan” jails were built, Iowa’s is the only three-story one ever constructed.
Designed by Indianapolis architects William H. Brown and Benjamin F. Haugh, the jail features revolving pie-shaped cells inside a cage designed to disallowed prisoners from escaping. The rotary plate was cranked by hand to allow the jailer to rotate the cells and access individual inmates, should a problem arise. The jail also included offices for the jailer, kitchen, trustee cells and quarters for women.
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Plan Your Visit to the Historic Squirrel Cage Jail
If you’re a lover of weird history, a visit to the Squirrel Cage Jail is a must. Now managed as a museum by the Iowa State Sheriffs’ and Deputies’ Association, this historic building is full of unique local and state history.
Visit the museum’s website for more information about admission costs, hours and special events.
Historic Pottawattamie County Squirrel Cage Jail, 226 Pearl Street in Council Bluffs, Iowa
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