“History and Hops: Oklahoma’s Tiny Jails (Calabooses) Survey” presentation by Matt Pearce and Mike Mayes

On Friday, March 24, from 6 to 8 p.m., Preservation Oklahoma will continue its History and Hops series with a presentation about Oklahoma’s tiniest jails, called calabooses. The word calaboose takes its origins from the Spanish word for “dungeon.” In areas around the state, these small one-room holding cells were constructed to temporarily hold prisoners awaiting transport to county jails or larger cities.

Matt Pearce and Mike Mayes of the State Historic Preservation Office will explore the history of jails and law enforcement in the Oklahoma and Indian Territories. They will discuss their ongoing survey work of tiny jails found around the state, the National Register of Historic Places, and how others can get involved in documenting and preserving these small, municipal structures that have outlived their original purpose.

This program is free for Preservation Oklahoma members and is only $5 for nonmembers! Members and nonmembers can register online.

This event will take place in the Carriage House of the Henry and Anna Overholser Mansion, located at 405 NW 15th Street in Oklahoma City.

The History and Hops series is a fun way to learn about the historic buildings and architecture of Oklahoma while sipping a local brew! Beer, water, and light snacks will be provided.

The Monitou City Jail is an example of a calaboose located in Tillman County.