Cripple Creek, Colorado, is a town rich in history, and one of its most intriguing attractions is the Outlaws & Lawmen Jail Museum.

Located at 136 West Bennett Avenue, this two-story brick building served as the Teller County Jail for nearly 90 years and now offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of both the law enforcers and the outlaws of the Old West.

A Glimpse into the Past

From 1901 to 1991, the Teller County Jail housed men, women, and even children awaiting trial at the nearby courthouse. Some of these juveniles were runaways, while others were held for various offenses. The jail also served as a temporary holding facility for felons en route to prisons in Wyoming and for mentally ill prisoners on their way to the State Hospital in Cañon City. The facility was eventually closed because it lacked modern requirements like an exercise yard. Today, the museum preserves the original cells, allowing visitors to experience firsthand what life was like behind bars in the early 20th century.

Exploring the Museum

As you step inside, you’ll find that many areas of the jail have been preserved as they were during its operational years. Inmates’ illustrations and signatures still adorn the cell walls, providing a personal touch to the historical narrative. Initially, each cell housed four to six men, but in later years, this number decreased to one person per cell to meet evolving standards. Women and children were housed upstairs in rooms equipped with wooden bunks. A female jailer had a private bedroom on the second floor and was responsible for attending to the needs of these inmates.

The museum features a variety of historical artifacts, including vintage equipment, old police reports, mug shots, and profiles of notable figures from that era. Notably, the famous boxer Jack Dempsey spent time behind bars in this building. Other inmates included prostitutes, western outlaws, and intoxicated townspeople.

Haunted Tales

The Outlaws & Lawmen Jail Museum is not only a repository of history but also a site of reported paranormal activity. Visitors and staff have recounted experiences such as hearing heavy breathing, seeing apparitions, and feeling unexplained cold spots throughout the building. One account describes a Bible and rosary mysteriously appearing in the basement, with no explanation of how they got there. Another story involves the sound of papers falling, even though nothing was out of place. These tales add an eerie allure to the museum, attracting both history enthusiasts and paranormal investigators.

Visitor Information

The Outlaws & Lawmen Jail Museum is located at 136 West Bennett Avenue in Cripple Creek. Admission is $5, and children aged 6 and under can enter for free. The museum is open year-round, and tickets can be purchased at the door. There’s also a gift shop in the front lobby where visitors can purchase souvenirs to remember their visit.

Conclusion

A visit to the Outlaws & Lawmen Jail Museum offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the rich history of Cripple Creek. Whether you’re interested in the Old West, the criminal justice system of the past, or tales of the paranormal, this museum provides a fascinating and educational experience for all.