Situated on the banks of the Arkansas River, in historic Ozark, Arkansas, the Franklin County jail reserves remarkable historic integrity. The fortress-like look of the jail is historically appropriate for this building type. Built in 1914 with locally sourced stone, the square in shape building totals 2,512 square feet over its 2 stories. The main entrance is recessed in a roman-arched entry way, giving the building its appealing architecture yet rugged and impenetrable quality, with a second entrance on the front of the building opening onto a stairway that goes directly to the cell blocks.

The first floor of the building was originally a jailer’s quarters, and was repurposed into an office. Upstairs, the jailhouse retains excellent integrity. A large cell occupies the back half of the building, while a holding cell, women’s cell, and shower room occupy the front half. The bare concrete walls of the cell block still have the original graffiti carved into the wall surface by the inmates, graphically recalling the harshness of its original use. The original heavy steel doors are still in place, along with the bars on the windows.

Along with the one-of-a-kind building, the property boasts over half an acre, along with approximately 265 feet of frontage on River Street. The Arkansas River is just behind the property, providing excellent views both day and night. The options for this one-of-a-kind property are endless, and it is safe to say you are not likely to find another building with the same historical architecture and integrity. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime opportunity, call to schedule a showing today!