Attraction Guide: Squirrel Cage Jail, Council Bluffs, United States

Squirrel Cage Jail Guide

Dare to Enter: Experience the Eerie History of the Squirrel Cage Jail Guide

Prepare for a truly unique and unsettling experience at the Squirrel Cage Jail in Council Bluffs, Iowa! This isn't your typical museum; it's a historic jail with a rotating cellblock, earning it the nickname "Squirrel Cage." Step inside and feel the chilling atmosphere as you learn about the jail's history, its inmates, and the innovative (and arguably inhumane) design that made it famous. If you're looking for a dose of history with a side of the macabre, the Squirrel Cage Jail is a must-see. Built in 1885, the Squirrel Cage Jail, officially known as the Pottawattamie County Jail, operated until 1969. Its unique design featured a rotating, three-story cellblock with pie-shaped cells. Only one cell on each level could be accessed at a time, allowing a single guard to monitor all the inmates. This design was intended to be more efficient and secure, but it also created a claustrophobic and disorienting environment for those incarcerated within its walls. Over the years, the jail housed a variety of criminals, from petty thieves to murderers, and its walls have witnessed countless stories of despair and confinement. A visit to the Squirrel Cage Jail is an immersive experience. You can explore the cellblocks, learn about the lives of the inmates, and hear tales of escapes and paranormal activity. Guided tours are available, providing in-depth information about the jail's history and its unique design. The jail is also said to be haunted, and many visitors have reported experiencing strange occurrences, making it a popular destination for ghost hunters. While there are no specific culinary traditions associated with the jail itself, Council Bluffs offers a variety of dining options to satisfy your appetite after your chilling visit.