The Village Round House or Lock Up was built around the 1790s, for those that had broken the law until they could be removed to a town prison. They were often known as "Blind Houses," being quite dark inside except for the little light let in by an iron grating in the door. The Round House was last used for prisoners in 1885.
October 16, 2022
Somerset, England
One of the best-preserved examples of an old town lock-up in the country.
Kirkcudbright, Scotland
A 17th-century building that once served as the town's courthouse and jail is now a thriving art center.
Mantua, Italy
A medieval tower with a suspended iron cage used as an open-air jail for criminals who were exposed as a warning.
Prestonpans, Scotland
Reportedly the "most handsome" market cross in Scotland.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
The first federal construction project authorized under the Constitution
Santa Cruz de la Zarza, Spain
One of the last remnants of an ancient town wall
Colombo, Sri Lanka
This popular shopping mall and eatery once provided scant comfort to sick colonials and seafarers
Windsor, Virginia
The only remaining building from the original 1800 Isle of Wight Courthouse Complex
