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Sentence yourself to tour of old jail
IMG 1900
The Historic Liberty County Jail has stood on Main Street in Hinesville since 1892. - photo by Photo provided.

Editor's note: This article has been revised to reflect the following correction, which will appear in Wednesday's print edition. An article on the front page of July 15 edition gave an incorrect telephone number to call for more information on tours of the Historic Liberty County Jail. The correct number is 912-877-4332.

Area residents and visitors now have regularly scheduled opportunities to explore one of Liberty County’s historical sites — right in the heart of Hinesville.

The Historic Liberty County Jail, listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1995, is open for free tours from 10 a.m. to noon every Tuesday and Friday. A representative from the Hinesville Downtown Development Authority, which manages the property, will show visitors through the 123-year-old, two-story brick building while offering background information, a timeline and tales stemming from local lore.

The jail, at 302 S. Main St., opened in October 1892 and replaced a one-story, wooden jail on what then was the south side of the city, according to historical records. Through the years, there were some modifications and alterations. A considerable number of changes and renovations to the jail likely were completed around 1940-41. It was in use until 1970 when, in March of that year, the jail was auctioned off and purchased by the Liberty County Historical Society for $4,500.

The group attempted to return the exterior of the structure to its unpainted brick façade by sandblasting, according to records. Since the transition of ownership, the jail has been used by the Liberty County Chamber of Commerce, as an office for local garden clubs, the Jaycees’ Halloween haunted house and offices of the HDDA.

“The Hinesville Downtown Development Authority is happy to offer the community a chance to view and learn about one of the region’s most interesting and significant historic properties,” HDDA Executive Director Michelle Ricketson said. “We hope residents and visitors will take advantage of this opportunity and drop by the Historic Liberty County Jail to brush up on the past and explore this relic, which has been well-preserved.”

In addition to open hours on Tuesdays and Fridays, tours of the jail may be scheduled for other times by appointment. For information or to book a visit, call 912-877-4332 or email mainstreet@hinesvilledowntown.com.


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