A jail is not typically anyplace you want to visit when you’re out and about enjoying a carefree day; but when you visit Cornwall’s Historic Quarter you just need to experience the Historic Cornwall Jail. Built in 1834, the jail operated until 2002 when the Ministry of Correctional Services closed the facility when newer, larger facilities in major cities came about.

The cellblocks, common areas, exercise yard & visitation area continue to be maintained as they were over a century ago. You’ll have the chance to step into a cell to experience life behind bars for a few moments.

During the guided tour of the gaol (which is how jail was spelled in early days), you’ll hear stories of prison life from the point of view of the guards and the inmates. You'll also learn about escapes that were attempted and/or accomplished. The jail is situated on the corner of Water and Pitt Streets

Its history is unique that during the war of 1812, the adjacent court house was actually given over for use as barracks and the courts were moved to St. John's Church and local taverns.

In 1826 the building burned to the ground; plans for the new Court House and Gaol were begun at once with the main block being completed in the summer of 1833. In 1858-59 an addition was made to the west side for a jailer's residence, while the cells were reconfigured to provide separate quarters for men and women prisoners.

The jail was closed in the fall of 2002 in favor of newer, larger facilities in Ottawa. The former jailer's residence is currently the office of Cornwall & Seaway Valley Tourism, while the jail has been kept as it was when closed in 2002. Tours of the jail portion of the building were began to be offered to the general public beginning in 2005. Check out their web site at www.cornwalljail.com