Franklin County Historic Jail — Attraction in Hampton

In early May, I & a friend had the "privilege" of taking a 1 1/2 hour tour of the 1880 FRANKLIN COUNTY HISTORIC JAIL in Hampton, IA---expertly guided by owner/historian/caretaker/operator Mark Gudmundsen. Moving from California, Mark purchased this building in 2016 & has used his own money, passion, patience, & expertise to "lovingly restore" both the jail & the attached 2-story structure that was originally the sheriff's home. Three "volunteers" joined Mark to show us what it would be like to experience the jail during a "role play" overnight stay. Being a professional web designer, Mark has chosen a "novel" way of allowing the jail to make some money. Listed on airbnb, an individual/individuals can stay a night or several nights---experiencing everything in detail of what it would be like to be incarcerated in the year 1976. The past "jailed felons" have come from all over the USA & several foreign countries. Some individuals have "repeated" the experience!!! People view it as a "true vacation", because all your worldly possessions are confiscated shortly after you are "arrested" in the parking lot, upon your arrival. Even an entire family has stayed overnight! All for the individual charge of what it costs, per day, to presently house an inmate in the USA. Oh, if I was younger & didn't have "old bones", this "unique experience" would be awesome! Whatever way you can visit---via a quick tour or an overnight experience, don't miss out on meeting "enthusiastic" Mark & seeing & learning about this "historic jail"! The courthouse in Hampton is also on the historic registry & INCREDIBLE! All in the middle of Iowa!! We Iowans are so...

I wish I could leave 10 stars!! This place is AMAZING!!! Such great local history and a 1 of a kind experience to say the least. Mark is amazing to as a host and as a guide. He has made this place look amazing in all ways modern and historic as needed. It would be great to stay in contact with him!! I highly recommend this place as a stop if in the area or make a special trip to see this wonderful...

Absolutely superlative experience the facility is very clean, well managed, and the staff are extremely professional. You are insured to have an outstanding time. They were diligently to ensure you’re having an enjoyable experience and meet your needs from an experiential standpoint. The facility is completely G rated And it’s both authentic...