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"Jail
for sale! The old Bell County jail is now being used as a private
residence."
- Terry
Jeanson, July 2007 photo |
Historical Marker:
Early Bell
County Jail
In 1854, four years
after the county was organized, a 2-story structure of logs was built
on this site, to serve as the first Bell
County jail. That log jail was replaced in 1873 by this building
of native limestone. In 1874, vigilantes from all parts of Texas raided
this jail and executed nine men charged with murder, robbery, horse
theft and other crimes. This citizens' attack was regarded as a major
factor in ending lawlessness in Bell
County during the 1870's. Building was rented to city of Belton
in 1884 when third county jail was completed. Sold later.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, 1967 |
Historical
marker on front of the old Bell County jail.
Photo courtesy Terry
Jeanson, July 2007 |
The jail's original
limestone facade underneath the current stucco exterior.
Photo courtesy Terry
Jeanson, July 2007 |
| Texas
Escapes, in its purpose to preserve historic, endangered and vanishing
Texas, asks that anyone wishing to share their local history, stories,
landmarks and vintage or recent photos, please contact
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