Squirrel Cage Jail
The Squirrel Cage Jail is located a couple blocks just west of the courthouse in Gallatin, MO. It was built in 1889. It is one of the three remaining rotating jails in the United States. One is located in Council Bluffs, Iowa and the other in Crawfordsville, Indiana. Upon entering the jail, you will find the Sheriff’s living quarters. This is the only jail to have the Sheriff’s living quarters attached. The first part of the jail that can be entered is the jail kitchen. The Sheriff’s wife would cook for the inmates, as well as her family. The original hand crank is still in place, as well as the “grub hole” which is where the inmates food was put through. The inside of the jail is very unique. The door still opens to let the prisoners in and out of, however it does not turn anymore. One side of the jail is still in tact with the bars still up and the other side is open to where you can see and go into the actual jail cells. The walls are covered with graffiti from past inmates.
A donation to the Jail is greatly appreciated!!!
For a tour of the jail please contact Trudi Burton @660-663-7342.
The late Sheriff Leland Houghton and his dog pose on the west side of the Squirrel Cage Jail.
