The two-story historic Old Wilkes Jail was built in 1849 and has incarcerated famous inmates such as Tom Dula (until former North Carolina governor Zebulon Vance, his defense attorney, requested a change of venue) and career criminal/escape artist Otto Wood.
The Old Wilkes Jail remained in use as a North Carolina jail until 1915. It was then sold and converted into apartments before being restored, using as many original materials as possible. It was opened to the public in 1970.
You can now visit the Old Wilkes Jail as a part of admission to Wilkes Heritage Museum or Candlelight Ghost Tours of Wilkes.
Know Before You Go
General admission is $6 and free for children under 5 (includes admission to Wilkes Heritage Museum and Old Wilkes Jail). Hours are 10-4 Monday-Friday, closed Saturdays, Sundays, and all major holidays. Check the website or Facebook page for Candlelight Ghost Tours of Wilkes dates. Candlelight Ghost Tours (including Old Wilkes Jail & Robert Cleveland Home) are $10 and last about 2 hours.
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