Squirrel Cage Jail | Council Bluffs

The Squirrel Cage Jail is a three-story, rotating jail located in Council Bluffs, Iowa, USA.

It is recognized as one of the few remaining examples of this unique jail design.

Visual Characteristics

The structure is constructed from red brick and features a central, cylindrical cell block that rotates on a central pivot. The exterior has a utilitarian design with minimal ornamentation. The jail has three levels, each containing a series of pie-shaped cells.

Location & Access Logistics

The Squirrel Cage Jail is situated at 202 West Broadway, Council Bluffs, Iowa. It is approximately 0.5km west of the downtown Council Bluffs city center. Limited street parking is available in the immediate vicinity. The closest public transport stop is located on Broadway, served by Metro Area Transit bus routes.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Squirrel Cage Jail was completed in 1885. The design is attributed to architect William H. O'Connell. Its original purpose was to serve as the Pottawattamie County Jail, designed to improve security and efficiency by allowing a single jailer to monitor all cells from a central point.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the interior of the jail and observe the rotating cell block mechanism. Guided tours explain the operational history and the daily lives of inmates and jailers. Photography is permitted within the designated tour areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shade is present around the exterior of the building. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located directly at the jail; options are available in the nearby downtown area.

Best Time to Visit

The jail is open for tours during daylight hours. Mid-morning or early afternoon provides consistent lighting for interior photography. The facility is accessible year-round, with no specific seasonal weather considerations impacting access.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of the Squirrel Cage Jail's design is that the cells could only be accessed when the entire rotating mechanism was stopped and aligned with a specific door. This prevented inmates from escaping during the rotation process. It is one of only three such jails known to still exist in the United States.

Nearby Landmarks

• Union Pacific Railroad Museum (0.3km East)
• Historic Old Market (1.2km Southeast)
• Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge (1.5km Southeast)
• Harrah's Council Bluffs Casino (2.1km Southwest)