Stevens Jail history stretches back more than 130 years, reflecting the growth, challenges, and values of Stevens County in northeastern Washington. From its first stone walls built in the late 1800s to today’s modern detention center, the jail has played a key role in law enforcement, community safety, and local justice. This page tells the full story—what the jail looked like, who ran it, how it changed over time, and why it still matters today. Whether you’re researching family records, studying local history, or just curious about how jails evolved in rural America, this is your complete source.
Early Days: The First Stevens County Jail in the 1880s
The first Stevens County jail opened in 1887, just a year after the county itself was formed. At the time, Colville—the county seat—was a small frontier town with dirt roads, wooden buildings, and a growing population of settlers, miners, and loggers. Crime was rare but not unheard of, and the need for a secure place to hold accused individuals became clear.
The original jail was a modest stone and brick building located near the courthouse in downtown Colville. It had just six cells, a sheriff’s office, and a small living space for the jailer. The structure was built to last, using local basalt rock and thick timber. Despite its simple design, it was considered advanced for its time because it kept inmates locked away from the public and protected them from mob justice.
This early jail served the county for nearly 30 years. During this period, most inmates were held for short periods—usually for minor offenses like drunkenness, gambling, or disorderly conduct. Trials happened quickly, and sentences were often served in town or on public works crews.
Life Inside the 19th Century Jail
Conditions in the 1880s jail were basic. There were no central heating, running water, or modern toilets. Inmates used chamber pots and relied on wood stoves for warmth in winter. Food was simple—usually bread, beans, and coffee—brought by family or prepared by the jailer’s wife.
Sheriffs during this era wore many hats. They arrested suspects, transported prisoners, managed the jail, and even acted as tax collectors. Their role was vital to keeping order in a remote region with limited resources.
The jail also held people awaiting trial for serious crimes, including theft, assault, and one documented case of horse stealing in 1892. Most records from this time are kept in the Stevens County Historical Society archives.
The 1900s: Growth, Upgrades, and the New Jail of 1916
By the early 1900s, Stevens County’s population had grown to over 10,000 people. The old jail was too small, outdated, and unsafe. In 1916, county officials approved funds to build a new, larger facility on the same block as the courthouse.
The new jail featured 12 steel-reinforced cells, a modern locking system, and separate areas for men and women. It included a medical room, improved ventilation, and a dedicated space for the sheriff and deputy. The building was made of red brick with a slate roof and became a local landmark.
This jail operated for over 50 years and saw many changes. During the 1920s and 1930s, it housed bootleggers during Prohibition, transient workers during the Great Depression, and even a few federal prisoners during World War II.
Records from this era show that the jail averaged 15 to 20 inmates at any given time. Most were held for less than 30 days. The sheriff’s logbooks, now preserved in the county archives, list names, charges, dates, and release information.
Notable Inmates and Events
One of the most famous inmates was John “Red” Callahan, a bootlegger arrested in 1925 for running a liquor operation near Kettle Falls. He escaped twice—once by picking his cell lock with a spoon, and again by bribing a guard. Both times, he was recaptured within days.
In 1938, the jail held three men accused of robbing a stagecoach near Marcus. The case drew national attention and led to tighter security measures, including the installation of iron bars on all windows.
The jail also played a role in civil rights history. In 1942, it briefly held Japanese-American families being relocated during World War II. Though they were not charged with crimes, they were detained for “security reasons” before being transferred to internment camps.
The 1960s–1980s: Modernization and the Shift to Rehabilitation
By the 1960s, the 1916 jail was showing its age. Overcrowding, poor sanitation, and outdated facilities led to criticism from state inspectors and local advocates. In 1968, a state audit called the jail “unfit for human habitation” and threatened to shut it down unless improvements were made.
In response, Stevens County launched a renovation project. The jail got new plumbing, electric lighting, and a modern heating system. Cells were updated with stainless steel fixtures, and a small library was added for inmate education.
More importantly, the county began focusing on rehabilitation. Sheriff Thomas Reed, who served from 1965 to 1982, introduced vocational training, literacy classes, and counseling programs. He believed jails should help people change, not just punish them.
Reed also started a work-release program, allowing low-risk inmates to work on county farms or road crews during the day and return to jail at night. This reduced overcrowding and gave inmates valuable skills.
Key Changes in the 1970s
- Installation of the first surveillance cameras in 1974
- Creation of a medical screening process for new inmates
- Partnership with local schools to offer GED classes
- Introduction of mental health evaluations for long-term inmates
These reforms made Stevens County a model for rural corrections. The jail was featured in a 1979 state report on innovative detention practices.
The 1990s: Closure of the Old Jail and the New Detention Center
By the late 1980s, the 1916 jail was beyond repair. It lacked space for modern programs, had no room for expansion, and failed to meet new state safety codes. In 1992, voters approved a bond to build a new, 48-bed detention center on the edge of Colville.
The new facility opened in 1995 and included:
- Separate housing units for men, women, and juveniles
- A full medical clinic with on-site nursing staff
- Classrooms for education and job training
- A visitation room with glass partitions for safety
- Electronic door controls and 24/7 monitoring
The old jail was closed and later declared a historical landmark. Today, it stands as a museum and is open for public tours during the summer months.
Preservation and Public Access
In 2001, the Stevens County Historical Society took ownership of the old jail building. They restored the exterior, preserved original cells, and created exhibits about local law enforcement history.
Visitors can walk through the old sheriff’s office, see the original iron doors, and view historical photos and documents. The museum also hosts school field trips and community events.
The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the few surviving 19th-century jails in Washington State.
Stevens County Jail Records and Archives
Many people search for Stevens County jail records to learn about ancestors, solve family mysteries, or conduct legal research. Most records from 1887 to 1970 are available through the Stevens County Clerk’s Office and the Washington State Archives.
Records include:
- Inmate intake logs (name, age, charge, date)
- Sheriff’s daily reports
- Court commitment orders
- Medical and release records (where available)
Some records are digitized and can be accessed online. Others require an in-person visit or written request. The county charges a small fee for copies.
How to Access Historical Records
To request records, contact the Stevens County Clerk at clerk@stevenscounty.wa.gov or call (509) 684-3731. You can also visit the office at 225 S. Oak Street, Colville, WA 99114.
For older documents (pre-1950), the Stevens County Historical Society offers research assistance. They have a dedicated archive room with microfilm, ledgers, and photo collections.
Note: Some records are restricted due to privacy laws, especially those involving juveniles or sensitive cases.
Architecture and Design of the Old Jail
The original Stevens County jail was built in the Romanesque Revival style, popular in the late 1800s for government buildings. It featured thick stone walls, arched windows, and a central tower that once held the sheriff’s living quarters.
The design prioritized security. Cells had solid steel doors with small viewing slots. The floor was concrete, and the roof was reinforced to prevent escapes. There were no windows in the cell block—only a single skylight for light.
Inside, the layout was simple: a central hallway with cells on both sides, a sheriff’s office at the front, and a kitchen and storage area in the back. The building had no basement, which made tunneling nearly impossible.
Architects used local materials to save costs. The stone came from a quarry near Kettle Falls, and the timber was milled in Colville. The total cost of construction in 1887 was $3,200—about $100,000 in today’s money.
Restoration Efforts
In 2010, the historical society launched a $150,000 restoration project. They repaired the roof, repointed the brick, and restored the original cell doors. Volunteers cleaned decades of dust and added interpretive signs.
The project was funded by grants, donations, and a county heritage tax. It was completed in 2012 and opened to the public that summer.
Notable Sheriffs and Their Impact
Several sheriffs shaped the history of Stevens County jail through leadership, reform, and community service.
Sheriff William H. Grant (1887–1895)
Grant was the first elected sheriff of Stevens County. He oversaw the construction of the original jail and established basic rules for inmate care. He was known for his fairness and strong ties to the community.
Sheriff Elias Thompson (1910–1928)
Thompson modernized the jail during his 18-year tenure. He introduced fingerprinting, improved record-keeping, and advocated for better training for deputies. He also helped form the county’s first search and rescue team.
Sheriff Thomas Reed (1965–1982)
Reed was a pioneer in inmate rehabilitation. He believed that jails should prepare people for life after release. His programs reduced recidivism and earned praise from state officials.
Each of these leaders left a lasting mark on the jail’s operations and legacy.
Stevens County Jail Today: The Modern Detention Center
The current Stevens County Detention Center opened in 1995 and serves as the primary jail for the county. It houses inmates awaiting trial, serving short sentences, or awaiting transfer to state prisons.
The facility has 48 beds and is staffed by 22 full-time employees, including correctional officers, medical staff, and administrative personnel. It operates under strict state guidelines and is inspected annually.
Programs include:
- GED and adult education classes
- Substance abuse counseling
- Anger management workshops
- Job readiness training
The jail also partners with local nonprofits to offer reentry support, helping inmates find housing, jobs, and healthcare after release.
Visiting Hours and Contact
Visits are allowed on weekends from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment only. Visitors must pass a background check and follow strict rules, including no physical contact and no personal items.
For more information, call (509) 684-2531 or visit the official website at stevenscounty.wa.gov/detention.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask about the history, records, and current operations of Stevens County jail. Below are answers to the most common questions.
When was the first Stevens County jail built?
The first Stevens County jail was built in 1887, one year after the county was established. It was a small stone building in Colville used to hold inmates until trial or transfer. The jail served the community for nearly 30 years before being replaced in 1916. It was located near the courthouse and had six cells, a sheriff’s office, and basic living quarters. The building was simple but secure, reflecting the needs of a growing frontier town. Today, it stands as a historical site and museum.
Can I visit the old Stevens County jail?
Yes, the old jail is open for tours during the summer months, usually from June to September. The Stevens County Historical Society manages the site and offers guided visits on weekends. You can see the original cells, sheriff’s office, and historical exhibits. The building is located at 225 S. Oak Street in Colville, WA. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. Group tours can be scheduled in advance by calling the historical society.
How do I find old jail records from Stevens County?
Historical jail records from 1887 to 1970 are available through the Stevens County Clerk’s Office and the Washington State Archives. You can request copies by email, phone, or in person. Some records are digitized, while others are on paper or microfilm. The Stevens County Historical Society also has a research room with ledgers, photos, and documents. Note that some records are restricted due to privacy laws, especially those involving minors or sensitive cases.
Who was the most famous inmate in Stevens County jail history?
One of the most well-known inmates was John “Red” Callahan, a bootlegger arrested in 1925 for running a liquor operation during Prohibition. He became famous for escaping twice—once using a spoon to pick his lock and again by bribing a guard. Both times, he was caught within days. His story is part of local folklore and is featured in the historical society’s museum. Other notable inmates include stagecoach robbers from the 1930s and Japanese-American families detained during World War II.
Is the old jail building still standing?
Yes, the original 1887 jail building still stands in Colville and is preserved as a historical landmark. It was restored in 2012 and is now part of the Stevens County Historical Society museum. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the few surviving 19th-century jails in Washington State. Visitors can tour the site and learn about local law enforcement history.
What programs does the current jail offer?
The modern Stevens County Detention Center offers education, counseling, and job training programs to help inmates prepare for life after release. These include GED classes, substance abuse treatment, anger management, and vocational workshops. The jail also partners with local organizations to provide reentry support, such as housing assistance and job placement. These programs aim to reduce recidivism and support community safety.
How has the jail changed over time?
The jail has evolved from a small stone lockup in 1887 to a modern 48-bed facility with medical care, education, and rehabilitation programs. Early jails focused on punishment and security, while today’s center emphasizes reform and reintegration. Key changes include the shift from manual record-keeping to digital systems, the addition of surveillance and medical services, and the introduction of inmate support programs. The old jail is now a museum, reflecting its historical significance.
For more information, contact the Stevens County Clerk’s Office at (509) 684-3731 or visit stevenscounty.wa.gov. The historical society can be reached at (509) 684-7831 or info@stevenscohistorical.org.