Have you ever considered visiting a jail? Not an enforced visit, of course, but one you can leave anytime you want. If the thought intrigues you, consider the Old Brunswick County Jail, after all, "It's nothing like Alcatraz, more like Mayberry." Built in 1904 and in service until 1971, this two-story structure contains some of the original accouterments. The sliding doors to the cells remain, as does the original register of "residents." There is even some left-over graffiti (including caricatures) — mainly from the Nixon era. The jail keeper's quarters contain a coal burning stove and cook oven with pans and cooking devices as well as pictures of the jailers. You will see original coal-burning pot-belly stoves throughout.
Since 1984, the structure has been maintained by the Southport Historical Society. New displays are added annually - and then there are the stories - but you'll have to visit to learn those. The jail is open Wednesdays and Saturdays April to October (as well as Fridays in June, July and August), from 12:30 PM until 3:30 PM. In addition, visits can be made at other times during the July 4th Festival and the Southport Christmas House Tour in December.
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