St. Augustine Old Jail Museum Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore historic maximum security cells
- Hear tales of infamous criminals
- Learn about executions in the gallows
- See the warden's family living quarters
- Discover the history of St. Augustine's justice system
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of the Old Jail Museum
- Visit to maximum security cells
- Historical accounts of infamous criminals
- Food and beverages
Itinerary
For nearly 60 years – until 1953 – the Old Jail served as the St. Johns County facility for petty thieves and hardened criminals. There were even eight recorded executions, two of which were accused murderers. Sim Jackson, who was hanged in 1908 after murdering his wife with a straight razor, is among the group. Today, visitors learn about the infamous Sheriff Perry, who served from 1889 until 1897 and again from 1901 until 1919. His stature as a “big, bold man” at 6’6” and weighing 300 pounds was intimidating even for the most hardcore of inmates. Though popular in the community, Perry was feared amongst cell inhabitants – both male and female – for his reputation of renting out prisoners to local farmers through a leasing system. Visitors can also take a look at the cell blocks, gallows and sheriff’s quarters. See where the sheriff, his wife and children lived, right upstairs from the prisoners, and how they used their own kitchen to prepare meals for the inmates. A tour through this attraction will show visitors what life was like as an inmate and how the Old Jail helped shape St. Augustine’s history.
Experience is offered by Historic Tours of America
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is conducted in English; consider this if you require a different language.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible; please inform the staff in advance for assistance.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult during the tour.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves walking through the museum.
- Bring a camera to capture the historic architecture and exhibits.
- Parking is available on-site; arrive early to secure a spot.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Stroller Accessible
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- Children 5 yrs. and younger are free
- Free parking available
- Reservations are not accepted; tours operate on a first come, first serve basis on the day of
- Museum is wheelchair accessible on lower floor only.
Traveler reviews
So much fun
This was GREAT! Our guide Lizzie was fun and informative, and she made the experience inter-active. One of the best tour guides I’ve ever had It is an appropriate tour for all ages and I highly recommend it!
Best “Inmate” Tour Guide
Benny the “inmate” tour guide was very entertaining while also knowledgeable of history. He interacted with us, the audience, with jokes and song! (And he can sing!!) He made this tour the highlight of our St Augustine trip! Five stars for Benny!
Well worth a visit
Florence was our guide and she was excellent. She was very informative and made the experience fun too. It was really interesting to hear all the stories about the criminal system back in 1906. Highly recommend a visit if your in the area.
Must-do tour with Benny!
Our guide Benny was amazing. Stayed in character and was a great and entertaining storyteller. Old Jail was fascinating to learn about, and top floor has some exhibits to browse after the tour ends. My 4th grader son enjoyed it too, although some of the stories are a bit scary and probably not suitable for younger kids.
Great Experience
A great tour. Louie our tour guide did an excellent job of presenting the information in character as an inmate. Presented information in a fun way.