3 thoughts on “Calabooses (Existing)”

1. Mark Churilla June 20, 2015 at 10:51 am

   Mr. Moore, I enjoyed your Texas Calaboose story in Texas Coop Power. I have a photo on my phone that was taken at what was known as the Dessau Dance Hall, NE Travis County, Dessau Road at Howard Lane. About 18 years ago I was told this metal box used as a holding cell that would be placed on a wagon to haul offenders to Travis Co. Jail. The Dance Hall was infamous for unacceptable behavior (alcohol,dancing, women) early in the last century. This is very similar to the other iron Calaboose pictured on your web page. Please share any info you may have on this holding cell. Thanks. Mark Churilla.

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   1. Bill Post authorJune 21, 2015 at 12:21 pm

      Mark,

      These metal cages, cells, or jails were most often inside a wooden building. Some were made locally and others were ordered from companies who manufactured jail cells. I suspect that the one in Travis County was inside a building. It could have been placed on a wagon but I think that is highly unlikely. If you look at Grayson County (Dennison) under Cages and Cells you will see what a portable metal jail usually looked like. Also, go to Other Jails and look for Sequin, Texas and you will see one made of wood. I cannot say for sure that either is true but based on my research I do believe it was inside a building. I would like permission to use your pictures. I want to see this one in person so I can get measurements. Can you give me directions?

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      1. Bill Post authorJune 27, 2015 at 2:54 pm

         Mark,

         I may be coming to Dessau tomorrow to see the metal cage. Is it easy to find?

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