History

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The Caledonia County Jail, located in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. The jail's origins can be traced to the establishment of Caledonia County in 1850. As the county grew and developed, the need for a secure and adequate facility to house inmates became apparent.

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Early History

Construction of the Caledonia County Jail

In 1853, the Caledonia County Commissioners authorized the construction of a new jail. The jail was designed by architect Ammi B. Young, who also designed other notable buildings in Vermont, including the Vermont State House. The jail was built using local granite and was completed in 1855 at a cost of $20,000.

Use of the Caledonia County Jail

The Caledonia County Jail served as the primary detention facility for Caledonia County for over a century. The jail housed both male and female inmates and provided basic services such as food, shelter, and medical care. The jail also served as a place of employment for local residents, who worked as jailers and guards.

Modernization of the Caledonia County Jail

In the early 20th century, the Caledonia County Jail underwent several renovations and upgrades to improve its conditions and security. In the 1950s, a new wing was added to the jail, increasing its capacity and providing more modern facilities. In the 1970s, the jail underwent a major renovation that included the installation of new security systems and the expansion of the jail's infirmary.

Challenges Faced by the Caledonia County Jail

Over the years, the Caledonia County Jail has faced several challenges, including overcrowding, understaffing, and budget constraints. In the 1990s, the jail's population grew significantly, leading to overcrowding and concerns about the safety and well-being of inmates and staff. In recent years, the jail has faced budget cuts, resulting in staff reductions and the closure of certain programs and services.

Future of the Caledonia County Jail

The future of the Caledonia County Jail is uncertain. In recent years, there have been discussions about replacing the aging jail with a new facility. However, funding for a new jail is limited, and the project has not yet been approved. The Caledonia County Jail continues to operate as the primary detention facility for Caledonia County, providing essential services to the community while facing ongoing challenges.

Notable Inmates of the Caledonia County Jail

Over the years, the Caledonia County Jail has housed a number of notable inmates, including:

• Phineas Gage: In 1848, Phineas Gage, a railroad construction foreman, survived a horrific accident in which a tamping iron was driven through his head. Gage's case became famous for his remarkable recovery and the changes in his personality and behavior that followed the accident. He was briefly held in the Caledonia County Jail while awaiting trial for an assault charge.
• William Scott: In 1859, William Scott, a farmer from Peacham, Vermont, was convicted of murdering his wife and two children. Scott was sentenced to death and hanged in the Caledonia County Jail in 1860. His case was one of the most sensational murder trials in Vermont history.
• Frederic Remington: In 1886, Frederic Remington, a renowned artist and illustrator, was arrested in St. Johnsbury for public intoxication. Remington was held in the Caledonia County Jail overnight before being released. He later went on to create some of the most iconic images of the American West.

The Caledonia County Jail in Popular Culture

The Caledonia County Jail has been featured in several works of popular culture, including:

• The Onion Field: In Joseph Wambaugh's 1973 non-fiction book, The Onion Field, the Caledonia County Jail is mentioned as the place where one of the main characters, Greg Powell, is held after being arrested for the murder of a police officer.
• The Man Who Skied Down Everest: In the 1975 film The Man Who Skied Down Everest, the Caledonia County Jail is briefly shown as the place where the main character, George Lowe, is held after being arrested for vagrancy.

Preservation Efforts

In recent years, there have been efforts to preserve the Caledonia County Jail as a historic landmark. In 2019, the jail was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The Caledonia County Historical Society has also been working to raise awareness of the jail's history and significance.

The Caledonia County Jail continues to be an important part of the community, providing essential services to Caledonia County while also serving as a reminder of the county's rich history.