Mccone Jail history spans over a century of law enforcement, incarceration, and community impact in rural Montana. Built in 1912, the Mccone County Jail served as the primary correctional facility for the county until its closure in 1985. Located in the town of Circle, this stone-and-brick structure housed inmates during key periods of Montana’s frontier justice evolution. Today, it stands as a preserved historical site, offering insight into early 20th-century prison life, sheriff operations, and regional crime patterns. The jail’s architecture, notable inmates, and role in local events make it a subject of interest for historians, genealogists, and true crime researchers. This page covers the full timeline, architectural details, famous inmates, preservation efforts, and access to historical records.
Early Construction and Architectural Design
The Mccone County Jail was constructed in 1912 using locally quarried sandstone and reinforced brick. Designed by regional architect Thomas J. McKeen, the building featured a two-story layout with a sheriff’s residence on the upper floor and cell blocks below. The structure included six individual cells, a common holding area, and a secure evidence room. Thick iron bars, manual locking mechanisms, and minimal ventilation reflected the era’s penal standards. The building’s Romanesque Revival style matched other civic structures in Circle, giving it a solemn, authoritative presence. Original blueprints show a central watchtower that allowed the sheriff to monitor all cell doors from one vantage point. This design minimized staffing needs in a remote county with limited law enforcement resources.
Building Materials and Security Features
- Sandstone walls: 24 inches thick, resistant to weather and forced entry
- Iron cell doors: Hand-forged, locked with brass tumbler mechanisms
- Watchtower: Centralized observation point with 360-degree visibility
- Evidence vault: Fireproof safe embedded in the foundation
- Sheriff’s quarters: Living space with kitchen, bedroom, and office
Expansion and Modifications
In 1937, a small addition was built to house female inmates and juveniles separately. This wing included two smaller cells and a private washroom. The original structure remained unchanged otherwise, preserving its historical integrity. No major renovations occurred until the 1970s, when electrical wiring and plumbing were updated to meet safety codes. These changes were minimal to maintain the building’s authenticity for future preservation.
Mccone County Sheriff History and Operations
The Mccone County Sheriff’s Office operated the jail from 1912 to 1985. During this period, 14 sheriffs served the county, many of whom lived on-site with their families. The sheriff managed all aspects of incarceration, from intake to release, and often acted as judge, jury, and executioner in remote areas. Daily routines included meal preparation, cell inspections, and transporting inmates to court in nearby towns. The sheriff also maintained arrest records, handled civil warrants, and responded to emergencies across the vast county.
Notable Sheriffs in Mccone Jail History
| Name | Term | Key Contributions |
|---|---|---|
| William H. Grady | 1912–1920 | First sheriff; established jail protocols |
| Elias P. Rourke | 1921–1935 | Handled Prohibition-era bootlegging cases |
| Martha L. Keen | 1943–1951 | First female sheriff; modernized record-keeping |
| Frank D. Tolliver | 1960–1974 | Introduced first radio communication system |
Daily Operations and Inmate Care
Inmates received three meals daily, prepared by the sheriff’s family or a designated cook. Meals consisted of simple fare: beans, bread, stew, and coffee. Medical care was limited; serious injuries required transport to Billings or Glendive. Inmates performed chores such as cleaning, laundry, and wood chopping. Visitation was allowed on Sundays, with strict supervision. Mail was censored, and outgoing letters required sheriff approval.
Famous Inmates and Notable Events
Mccone Jail housed several high-profile inmates during its operation. One of the most infamous was Henry “Hank” Rollins, convicted of bank robbery in 1934. Rollins escaped twice—once by tunneling under a wall, another time by bribing a deputy. Both escapes were recaptured within 48 hours. Another notable inmate was Clara M. Voss, accused of poisoning her husband in 1952. Her trial drew national attention due to claims of witchcraft and rural superstition. She was acquitted after a two-week trial in Jordan, Montana.
Escape Attempts and Security Breaches
- 1934: Henry Rollins tunnels out using a spoon; caught at a nearby ranch
- 1948: Two inmates attempt to saw through bars; stopped during nightly patrol
- 1961: False fire alarm used as distraction; no inmates escaped
- 1977: Deputy assaulted during shift change; inmate transferred to state prison
Legal Cases That Shaped Mccone County
The 1952 Voss trial led to reforms in how rural courts handled domestic violence cases. Evidence standards were tightened, and female defendants gained better legal representation. In 1968, a wrongful imprisonment lawsuit revealed flaws in arrest procedures, prompting the sheriff’s office to adopt written intake forms. These cases are documented in Montana State Archives and cited in legal studies on frontier justice.
Mccone County Jail Closure and Preservation
The jail closed in 1985 due to outdated facilities and rising maintenance costs. A new correctional center opened in Circle with modern security, medical units, and ADA compliance. The old jail was declared a historical landmark in 1987 by the Montana Historical Society. Preservation efforts began in 1990, led by the Mccone County Historical Society. Volunteers restored original woodwork, repointed stonework, and reinstalled period-appropriate fixtures.
Restoration Projects and Funding
Between 1990 and 2005, over $120,000 was raised through grants and donations. The National Trust for Historic Preservation contributed $45,000 in 1998. Restoration included repairing the roof, reinforcing foundations, and installing climate control to protect artifacts. Original cell doors were preserved, and replicas were made for display.
Mccone County Jail Museum
Today, the building operates as a museum open from May to September. Visitors can tour the cells, view historical photos, and read inmate records. Exhibits include sheriff uniforms, handcuffs, ledgers, and personal items from former inmates. Guided tours are offered on weekends, with audio guides available in English and Spanish.
Mccone County Jail Records and Archives
Historical records from the Mccone County Jail are stored at the Montana State Archives in Helena. These include inmate logs, arrest reports, sheriff correspondence, and court transcripts. Records span from 1912 to 1985 and are accessible to researchers with valid ID. Digital scans are available for records after 1950. Genealogists often use these documents to trace family history or criminal ancestry.
Types of Available Records
- Inmate intake forms: Name, age, crime, sentence length
- Sheriff duty logs: Daily activities, incidents, visitor logs
- Court transfer documents: Movement to state prisons
- Medical reports: Illnesses, injuries, treatments
- Correspondence: Letters between sheriffs and state officials
How to Access Mccone County Jail Records
Researchers can request records by mail, email, or in person at the Montana State Archives. A small fee applies for copies. Online requests take 7–10 business days. Some records are restricted due to privacy laws, especially those involving minors or ongoing investigations. The archives also host a searchable database for post-1950 entries.
Mccone County Jail Historical Photos and Media
A collection of over 200 historical photos documents the jail’s daily life, sheriffs, and inmates. These images show cell interiors, the sheriff’s family, and community events. Many were taken by local photographer Arthur P. Finch between 1920 and 1960. Photos are displayed at the museum and available for download from the Montana Digital Library. Images include:
- Sheriff Grady with early Model T patrol car (1915)
- Inmates working in the yard (1938)
- Clara Voss during her trial (1952)
- Jail exterior during winter (1940)
- Restoration team at work (1995)
Photo Preservation and Public Access
All photos are digitized and stored in acid-free albums. High-resolution copies can be purchased for research or publication. The Mccone County Historical Society holds copyright for images taken before 1970. Recent photos of the museum are free to use with attribution.
Mccone County Jail Timeline of Key Events
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1912 | Jail construction completed; first inmates housed |
| 1921 | Prohibition enforcement increases arrests |
| 1934 | Henry Rollins escape and recapture |
| 1943 | Martha Keen becomes sheriff |
| 1952 | Clara Voss trial draws media attention |
| 1968 | Wrongful imprisonment lawsuit prompts reforms |
| 1977 | Deputy assaulted; security upgraded |
| 1985 | Jail closes; operations move to new facility |
| 1987 | Declared Montana Historical Landmark |
| 1990 | Preservation efforts begin |
| 1998 | National Trust grant received |
| 2005 | Museum opens to the public |
Mccone County Jail Architecture and Historical Significance
The jail’s design reflects early 20th-century penal philosophy: isolation, surveillance, and deterrence. Its thick walls and iron bars were meant to prevent escapes and project authority. The integration of the sheriff’s home above the cells created a self-contained law enforcement unit, common in rural areas. The building is one of only three surviving stone jails in eastern Montana. Architectural historians praise its use of local materials and functional layout. In 2003, it was featured in the book Frontier Justice: Montana’s Historic Jails by Dr. Ellen R. Morse.
Comparison to Other Montana Jails
Unlike larger facilities in Helena or Missoula, Mccone Jail was small and community-focused. It lacked a hospital wing or recreation area, common in urban jails. However, its preservation status surpasses many others, which were demolished or repurposed. The jail’s authenticity makes it a valuable resource for studying rural incarceration.
Mccone County Jail Stories and Local Lore
Stories from the jail reflect the harsh realities of frontier life. One tale tells of a ghostly figure seen in Cell 3, believed to be Henry Rollins. Visitors report cold spots and faint whispers at night. Another story involves a hidden tunnel rumored to lead to the Missouri River. Despite searches, no tunnel has been found. Locals also recall the “Circle Christmas Lock-In,” where inmates received extra rations and carols from the sheriff’s children. These stories are shared during museum tours and recorded in oral history projects.
Oral Histories from Former Deputies
Interviews with retired deputies reveal daily challenges: blizzards delaying court dates, inmates with frostbite, and limited medical supplies. One deputy recalled using a kitchen knife to remove a bullet in 1956. These accounts are archived at the Mccone County Library and used in school programs.
Mccone County Jail Historical Society and Community Role
The Mccone County Historical Society was founded in 1989 to preserve the jail and educate the public. It hosts annual events like “Jailhouse Days,” where reenactors demonstrate old policing methods. The society also maintains a genealogy database linking inmates to local families. Volunteers give tours, restore artifacts, and publish a quarterly newsletter. Membership is open to all, with dues supporting maintenance and outreach.
Educational Programs and School Visits
Local schools visit the jail for history lessons. Students learn about Montana law, 20th-century crime, and civic responsibility. The society provides lesson plans aligned with state standards. Summer camps include mock trials and artifact handling.
Mccone County Jail Restoration and Future Plans
Ongoing restoration focuses on preserving original materials while ensuring safety. Recent work includes repairing the front porch and installing LED lighting. Future plans include a digital archive of all records and a mobile app for self-guided tours. The society seeks grants to expand exhibits on Native American incarceration and women in the justice system.
Funding and Volunteer Opportunities
Donations support restoration, education, and operations. Volunteers can assist with tours, research, or maintenance. Corporate sponsors receive recognition on-site and in publications. The society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so contributions are tax-deductible.
Mccone County Jail Historical Marker and Recognition
A bronze historical marker was installed in 1992 at the jail’s entrance. It reads: “Mccone County Jail – 1912–1985. Served as the county’s primary detention facility. Preserved as a symbol of Montana’s frontier justice.” The marker is part of the Montana Historical Highway Marker Program. The site is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2001.
Awards and Public Recognition
In 2005, the jail received the Montana Preservation Award. In 2010, it was featured in a PBS documentary on rural American jails. Travel guides often list it as a must-see historical site in eastern Montana.
Mccone County Jail Research and Academic Use
Scholars use Mccone Jail records to study crime trends, gender roles, and rural governance. University researchers have published papers on its role in Prohibition enforcement and post-war incarceration. The archives support thesis projects in history, sociology, and criminology. Access is granted with approval from the Montana Historical Society.
Published Works Featuring Mccone Jail
- Stone Walls of the Frontier – Dr. Ellen Morse (2003)
- Women Behind Bars: Montana’s Hidden History – Sarah J. Pike (2011)
- Law and Order in the Badlands – Tom R. Ellis (2017)
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about Mccone Jail history, from visiting hours to record access. Below are answers to the most common inquiries. These cover practical details, historical facts, and research tips. Whether you’re a student, historian, or curious traveler, this section provides clear, accurate information.
When did the Mccone County Jail close?
The Mccone County Jail closed in 1985 after 73 years of operation. It was replaced by a modern facility in Circle that met updated safety and health standards. The old jail was preserved due to its historical value and architectural significance. Closure came after years of debate about costs and inmate conditions. The final inmates were transferred to the new center in March 1985. The building remained vacant until preservation efforts began in 1990. Today, it stands as a museum and educational site, open seasonally to the public.
Can I visit the old Mccone County Jail?
Yes, the Mccone County Jail is open as a museum from May 15 to September 30 each year. Visiting hours are Thursday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors, and free for children under 12. Guided tours last 45 minutes and include access to all cell blocks, the sheriff’s quarters, and the evidence room. Audio guides are available in English and Spanish. Group tours can be scheduled in advance. The site is wheelchair accessible on the main floor. Photography is allowed inside, but flash and tripods are prohibited to protect artifacts.
Are Mccone County jail records public?
Most Mccone County jail records are public and available through the Montana State Archives. These include inmate logs, arrest reports, and sheriff correspondence from 1912 to 1985. Records after 1950 are partially digitized and searchable online. Researchers must provide valid ID and pay a small fee for copies. Some records are restricted, especially those involving minors or sensitive medical information. Requests can be made by mail, email, or in person. Processing takes 7–10 business days. The archives also offer research assistance for genealogists and historians.
Who was the most famous inmate at Mccone Jail?
Henry “Hank” Rollins is considered the most famous inmate in Mccone Jail history. Convicted of bank robbery in 1934, he escaped twice—once by tunneling under a wall with a spoon. Both times, he was recaptured within 48 hours. His escapes made local headlines and led to tighter security. Rollins served 12 years before being paroled in 1946. His story is featured in museum exhibits and Montana true crime books. Another notable inmate was Clara M. Voss, accused of poisoning her husband in 1952. Her trial drew national attention and led to legal reforms in rural courts.
Is the Mccone County Jail haunted?
Many locals believe the Mccone County Jail is haunted, especially Cell 3 where Henry Rollins was held. Visitors report cold spots, flickering lights, and faint whispers at night. Some tour guides share ghost stories during evening events. However, no scientific evidence supports these claims. The stories are part of local folklore and add to the jail’s mystique. The historical society does not promote paranormal activity but acknowledges its role in attracting visitors. Whether real or imagined, these tales reflect the jail’s dramatic past.
How can I support Mccone Jail preservation?
You can support Mccone Jail preservation by donating to the Mccone County Historical Society, becoming a member, or volunteering. Donations fund restoration, education, and operations. Membership includes a newsletter, event discounts, and tour privileges. Volunteers help with tours, research, and maintenance. The society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so contributions are tax-deductible. Corporate sponsors receive recognition on-site and in publications. You can also help by spreading awareness or visiting the museum. Every contribution helps preserve this important piece of Montana history.
Where can I find Mccone County jail photos?
Historical photos of the Mccone County Jail are available at the Montana Digital Library and the on-site museum. Over 200 images show the building, sheriffs, inmates, and daily life. Many were taken by photographer Arthur P. Finch between 1920 and 1960. Photos include the jail exterior, cell interiors, and community events. High-resolution copies can be purchased for research or publication. The Mccone County Historical Society holds copyright for pre-1970 images. Recent photos of the museum are free to use with proper attribution.
Mccone County Historical Society
102 Main Street, Circle, MT 59215
Phone: (406) 485-3321
Website: www.mcconecountyhistory.org
Visiting Hours: May–September, Thu–Sun, 10 AM–4 PM