Details for Early Bell County Jail

Historical Marker — Atlas Number 5027001336

Data

Marker Number 1336
Atlas Number 5027001336
Marker Title Early Bell County Jail
Index Entry Bell County Jail, Early
Address 210 N. Pearl
City Belton
County Bell
UTM Zone 14
UTM Easting 646638
UTM Northing 3437150
Subject Codes jails and prisons
Marker Year 1967
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark Yes
Marker Location
Private Property No
Marker Condition In Situ
Marker Size 18" x 28"
Marker Text 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

Location Map

View this record in full map (opens in new tab/window)