The old Chiefland Jail appears to be constructed of solid concrete.
By Terry Witt – Spotlight Senior Reporter
Tucked away in a hardwood forest behind the historic Chiefland Train Depot is a stark reminder of the past – the old city jail.
The solid concrete structure consists of two cells, each with a toilet and a small rear window. The entrance to both jail cells have been sealed for many years with metal bars.
Chiefland City Manager Mary Ellzey was given permission by the Chiefland City Commission Monday to research whether Florida Department of State Historical Resource grants could be obtained to research the history of the jail or establish a historic marker at the site.
She said Chiefland Police Sgt. Matt Poppell has begun conducting the research. Ellzey said this one of the jails used by the city in the distant past. She said the other jail no longer stands.
The Hiers family lived behind the jail and deeded property to city.
“I think we need to gather more information and apply for a grant. Hopefully we will meet the criteria for a historic structure,” Ellzey said.
Commissioners gave Ellzey permission to move forward with the research and applying for a grant. She said she would return to the commission before submitting the grant.
Remembering history has value.
The jail was used a long time ago. It is a piece of the city’s history. When it was built and how long it was used are hopefully historical facts that can be discovered through research.
It doesn’t appear to have had air conditioning or heating. Whether it had running water is another question. Are there any records of who was kept there and for how long? Those are other unanswered questions.
Many historians and philosophers believe history, with all its warts, should be remembered for the lessons it teaches us.
“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it,” said Philosopher George Santayana (1863-1952).
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City of Chiefland Regular Meeting April 13, 2020; Posted April 15, 2020
