Historic 1811 Jail

After the Revolutionary War, Captain Philip Buckner was awarded a land-grant by the State of Virginia in reward for his service. After making his first visit to the area in 1781, Buckner returned fifteen years later with 40 other families to settle in the town he called Augusta (named, it is believed, in honor of his home in Augusta County, Virginia). At Buckner’s request, a meeting was held to choose town trustees whereupon he deeded over to them the 600 acres on which the city is located. On October 7, 1797, the Kentucky Legislature issued the town its charter.

Augusta served as the seat of government in Bracken County until 1839, when it was permanently relocated to Brooksville. The first session of court was held in a log house that was built in 1803 and is still standing today at the corner of Parkview and Third Streets. Across the s

Parkview and Third Streets. Across the street is the historic 1811 Jail, which is believed to be Kentucky’s oldest jail still remaining on its original foundation. Visitors may tour the 1811 jail by contacting the Tourism Office.