Blanco
This rock calaboose is located in a courtyard behind the Uptown Blanco Restaurant at 317 Main Street in Blanco, Texas. According to Ed Blackburn’s book published in 2006 by Texas A&M University Press entitled Wanted: County Jails of Texas (page 38), this structure was constructed in 1876 at a cost of $1500 (Blackburn 2006:38). At one time, it contained two free standing metal cells. It measures 7.10 meters across the front and the sides are 6.42 meters in length (252 square feet). The floor consists of mortared limestone rocks and the ceiling is wood covered by rock. There are two windows on each side and they measure 53 cm by 75 cm. The door is 88 cm by 90 cm and secured by a massive lock.
Photo courtesy of Darryl Pearson
Photo courtesy of Darryl Pearson
There were no Sanborn maps at the agencies visited for Blanco, Texas during this study. This structure conforms to Floor Plan 2h (see Floor Plans). It has been recorded at TARL as historic site 41BC175. Darryl Pearson also visited this calaboose and took several photos. The one below shows a modern metal roof that has been added to help preserve it.
Photo courtesy of Darryl Pearson