Historical Society hosts Open House at Canton’s Old Jail

By Courtney Warren

The Canton-Madison County Historical Society held its annual Christmas Open House at the historic Old Jail in December, welcoming families and visitors to celebrate the holiday season in the community space.

The event, titled “Christmas at the Old Jail,” took place over three days at the jail, located at 234 East Fulton Street.

The Historical Society warmly invited the public to see the building lit up for the holiday, enjoy light refreshments, and meet new friends. Visitors were encouraged to stop by while in town seeing the Christmas lights on the Canton Square.

The Old Madison County Jail is recognized as one of the best-preserved 19th-century penal facilities still existing in Mississippi. The two-story brick structure was erected between 1870 and 1871 and is significant as an example of post-Civil War architecture. 

The building has an interesting contrast, with the front section designed as a residential space for the jailer and his family, and the ominous cell block located to the rear. 

The jail served the county for 99 years, operating until 1969. It was individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. Today, the building serves as the headquarters for the Canton-Madison County Historical Society.