Jail

“Welcome to Cascade's historic old jail, one of the few remaining "calaboose" buildings in Iowa. Built in 1881, this structure served as Cascade's primary detention facility for nearly half a century. Let's delve into the intriguing history of this iconic landmark. 

Cascade, incorporated in 1880, underwent rapid development..  With the burgeoning population and increasing need for law enforcement, the town recognized the necessity for a jail. Lee Simon, director and past president of the Tri-County Historical Society, sheds light on the significance of this establishment.

"Cascade's incorporation marked a pivotal moment in its history. With the merger of Cascade and Whitewater townships, the need for a centralized detention facility became evident. Thus, the construction of this jail commenced."

Before the establishment of this jail, temporary measures were taken to detain criminals. Lee Simon reveals an intriguing detail from Cascade's past.

"Prior to the construction of this jail, individuals awaiting justice were chained under the eastern arch of the bridge over the Maquoketa River. It was a makeshift solution until proper facilities were established."

The jail was constructed at the cost of around $500, a substantial sum for its time.  Today, it stands as a testament to the town's commitment to law and order.

The jail housed its first prisoners on the night before its official dedication. Lee Simon recounts an amusing incident involving a group of unruly women known as the "Coopertown female roustabouts."

"These women, in a state of inebriation, were arrested for disturbing the peace. It was quite the event for the newly constructed jail."

To minimize disturbances to the downtown area, the jail was strategically located away from First Avenue. Lee Simon elaborates on this decision.

"The authorities wanted to maintain order in the bustling downtown. By placing the jail away from the main thoroughfare, they aimed to minimize disturbances caused by rowdy prisoners."

There is little known about the "inhabitants" of the jail from time to time.

In 1926, the jail ceased its primary function as Cascade transitioned to portable iron jails inside City Hall. The decision was likely influenced by the jail's deteriorating conditions.”

Those interested in learning more about Cascade’s history can explore additional artifacts at the Tri-County Historical Museum, including one of the original portable iron cells used after the jail was decommissioned.