Mount Holly in Burlington County, New Jersey — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Historic Burlington County Prison Museum
1811-1865
Photographed By Deb Hartshorn, September 6, 2010
1. Historic Burlington County Prison Museum Marker
The Burlington County Prison Museum is a National Historical Landmark located here in the heart of historic Mount Holly, New Jersey.Designed by Robert Mills, one of America's first native-born and trained architects, the Burlington County Prison was completed in 1811.
As one of Mills' first independent architectural designs, the interior vaulted ceilings of poured concrete and the structure's brick and stone construction made the building virtually fireproof. Not only was the structure well suited for its purpose and virtually maintenance free, it also incorporated the philosophies of penal reform that were advocated during the period.
In short, this structure was a fine example of innovative interior planning, fireproofing, heating, and ventilation systems. It also increased awareness of the growing notion of the social responsibility to rehabilitate criminals. In fact, it was so well constructed that it remained in constant use until 1965.
The outside of the prison, including the massive front door with its large hinges and lock, has changed very little since the building was built.
Erected by
this page online
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Law Enforcement. In addition, it is included in the National Historic Landmarks series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1811.
Location. 39° 59.793′ N, 74° 47.351′ W. Marker is in Mount Holly, New Jersey, in Burlington County. Marker is at the intersection of High Street and Grant Street, on the right when traveling south on High Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Mount Holly NJ 08060, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Historic Prison (within shouting distance of this marker); Historic Burlington County Court House (within shouting distance of this marker); Cannon Made in Mount Holly (within shouting distance of this marker); House of John R. Slack (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Shinn-Curtis Log House (approx. 0.2 miles away); Grist Mill Stone (approx. 0.2 miles away); Mansion of James Langstaff (approx. 0.2 miles away); William Calverts Hardware Store (approx. Ό mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Mount Holly.
Regarding Historic Burlington County Prison Museum. National Register of Historic Places:
Burlington County Prison (added 1986 - - #86003558)
Also known as Burlington County Prison Museum
High
Photographed By Deb Hartshorn
2. National Historical Landmark Marker
has been designated a
National Historic Landmark
This site possesses national significance
in commemorating the history of the
United States of America
1987
National Park Service
United States Department of the Interior
Historic Significance: Architecture/Engineering
Architect, builder, or engineer: Latrobe,Benjamin Henry
Architectural Style: No Style Listed
Area of Significance: Architecture
Period of Significance: 1800-1824
Owner: Local
Historic Function: Government
Historic Sub-function: Correctional Facility
Current Function: Recreation And Culture
Current Sub-function: Museum
Also see . . . Burlington County Prison Museum. Website of the museum which offers links to history, photos and additional information. (Submitted on September 7, 2010, by Deb Hartshorn of Burlington County, New Jersey.)
Additional keywords. Prisons
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, September 18, 2010
3. Historic Burlington County Prison Museum Marker
Photographed By Deb Hartshorn, September 7, 2010
4. Historic Burlington County Prison Museum and Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on July 29, 2020. It was originally submitted on September 7, 2010, by Deb Hartshorn of Burlington County, New Jersey. This page has been viewed 963 times since then and 23 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 7, 2010, by Deb Hartshorn of Burlington County, New Jersey. 3. submitted on September 19, 2010, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey. 4. submitted on September 7, 2010, by Deb Hartshorn of Burlington County, New Jersey. • Syd Whittle was the editor who published this page.
