Bolton County Jail - Ghost Hunt/ Paranormal Investigation

Bolton County Jail, formally known as Bolton County Jail and Courthouse, stands as one of the town’s most imposing and historically significant buildings. Constructed in the mid-19th century and opening in 1866, the complex was designed to house both the county courts and prison, reflecting Victorian attitudes toward justice, punishment, and public order.

Built from local stone, the jail was designed to be deliberately austere and intimidating. Prisoners were held in individual cells, often in strict silence, while courtrooms within the same complex dealt with cases ranging from minor offences to serious crimes. The building served the borough during a period of rapid industrial growth, when poverty, overcrowding, and social unrest were common, and incarceration was seen as a key method of control and reform.

Throughout its operational years, Bolton County Jail held thousands of inmates, including men, women, and juveniles. Daily life within the jail was harsh, regimented, and physically demanding, with prisoners subjected to hard labour, strict discipline, and minimal comforts. Executions were carried out within the walls of the complex, adding to its dark reputation, and many prisoners passed through its doors never to leave as free people.

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, changes in the penal system and the construction of newer facilities led to the jail’s closure. The courthouse and prison were eventually decommissioned, but the building itself survived, later finding new uses while retaining much of its original structure, including cells, corridors, and secure areas.

Today, Bolton County Jail stands as a powerful reminder of Victorian justice and the lives affected within its walls. Its preserved cells, courtrooms, and corridors create an intense and atmospheric environment that still reflects its former purpose.

We’re looking forward to welcoming our customers as they join us for our paranormal event at Bolton County Jail, where we’ll explore the history, atmosphere, and stories that continue to linger within this formidable and historic building.