Richmond on Staten Island in Richmond County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Site of the Richmond County Jail
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), September 10, 2021
1. Site of the Richmond County Jail Marker
For nearly a century, the Richmond County Jail stood behind the Third County Courthouse, where the parking lot is now located. The first jail in this location was a fortress-style structure built in 1860. By the 1890s, conditions in the jail were reported to be unhealthy and in need of improvement. A 1901 newspaper article reported that the State Prison Commission declared it to be the worst jail in Greater New York. Another article in 1901 noted "The jail is damp; a fire is maintained every day in the year; the sewerage is fearfully bad…"
In 1905, work was completed on a new and larger jail which replaced the 1860 structure. The design of the new Richmond County Jail with better light and ventilation, reflected a growing national concern for the health and welfare of prisoners. The building had three floors and a basement, with a total of 64 cells, and separate floors for men and women.
The jail was closed in 1953 and demolished by the City of New York in 1959.
Erected by Historic Richmond Town.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Civil Rights • Law Enforcement. A significant historical year for this entry is 1860.
Location. 40° 34.254′ N, 74° 8.76′ W. Marker is on Staten Island, New York, in Richmond
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Rezeau-Van Pelt Family Cemetery (a few steps from this marker); Site of Dobler's Court House Hotel (a few steps from this marker); Site of the Richmond County Mutual Insurance Company (within shouting distance of this marker); Historic Richmondtown (within shouting distance of this marker); Site of the former Dutch Reformed Church of Richmond (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Site of Aquilino's Pizzeria and Restaurant (about 300 feet away); Site of 18th century structures (about 500 feet away); The Treasure House (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Staten Island.
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), September 10, 2021
2. Site of the Richmond County Jail Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on January 31, 2023. It was originally submitted on September 11, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 466 times since then and 76 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 11, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
