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Old Rock Jail: A Glimpse into Coosa County's Past

Explore Alabama's oldest stone jail in Rockford, a historic landmark offering a glimpse into 19th-century life and law enforcement.

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The Old Rock Jail, constructed in 1842 in Rockford, Alabama, is the state's oldest stone jail and a National Register of Historic Places landmark. This well-preserved building offers a unique glimpse into 19th-century incarceration and local history. Though its museum is open during limited times, the exterior is accessible year-round.

A brief summary to Old Rock Jail

Local tips

  • Check with the Coosa County Historical Society for museum opening times before planning your visit.
  • The jail's exterior is accessible year-round, providing a photo opportunity even when the museum is closed.
  • Combine your visit with a walk on the nearby Magnolia Trail Park, located behind the Old Rock Jail.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Old Rock Jail is located on Linn Street in Rockford. From the Coosa County Courthouse, head north on AL-22, turn left onto Jackson Street, then turn left onto Linn Street. The jail will be on your left. The walk is less than 5 minutes. There is no fee to see the exterior of the jail.

  • Driving

    From the intersection of US-231 and AL-22 in Wetumpka, head east on AL-22 for approximately 20 miles to Rockford. Once in Rockford, turn left onto Jackson Street, then turn left onto Linn Street. The Old Rock Jail will be on your left. There is no dedicated parking lot, but street parking is available. There is no fee to see the exterior of the jail.

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Discover more about Old Rock Jail

The Old Rock Jail in Rockford, Alabama, stands as a testament to the state's early history and architectural resilience. Constructed in 1842 from locally sourced stone, it is recognized as the oldest stone jail in Alabama and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Originally built to serve Coosa County, the jail operated for over nine decades before closing its doors in 1938. In 1973, the Coosa County Historical Preservation Authority transformed the building into a museum, preserving its original structure and allowing visitors to step back in time. The jail's architecture reflects the period, offering insight into the region's construction techniques and penal practices of the 19th century. Today, visitors can explore the exterior of this historic landmark year-round. Although the museum has limited operating hours, a visit provides a tangible connection to the past, illustrating the evolution of law enforcement and community life in Coosa County. The Old Rock Jail stands behind Magnolia Trail Park. Other attractions in Rockford include Fred the Town Dog's Grave and Barrett's Boat Launch & Park on Lake Mitchell.

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