Old County Jail

Since the formation of Mono County in 1861, six facilities have served as the county jail. This stone building was placed into service by Sheriff C. F. McKinney, Dec. 5, 1883, and became the 5th Mono County Jail. It replaced the wooden jail facility partially destroyed, December 16, 1882, during an escape attempt by prisoners. This replacement jailhouse, larger than its predecessor, contained - an office, dining area, 6 cells, 2 wash and storage rooms. The walls were two feet thick and constructed of stone from a nearby quarry. It was designed by G. L. Porter and built by A. J. Severe to be escape proof, at a cost of $5,750 (U.S. gold coin). Subsequently, it became the main incarnation facility for the county until April 10, 1964, when it was replaced by the current jail. To date, no other facility has served as the county jail for a longer period of time.

This plaque dedicated as a California Sesquicentennial event.
September 9, 2000
E Clampus Vitus
Bodie Chapter #64