Paranormal Happenings at the Old Jail
The Old Jail has long been known for harsh punishments, dark history and eerie encounters. Many who visit claim that some prisoners never left, their spirits still trapped behind the iron bars of their cells. The Old St. Johns County Jail has become a hot spot for paranormal activity, drawing ghost hunters and curious visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the unexplained.
Some believe the suffering and violence that took place here left an imprint on the jail itself, creating restless spirits and eerie disturbances. The Old Jail’s history is filled with ghostly tales, from shadowy figures lurking in cells to disembodied voices that echo through empty hallways.
The Ghost of Sheriff Joe Perry
One of the most well-known spirits said to haunt the Old Jail is Sheriff Joe Perry. As the longest-serving sheriff in St. Johns County, Perry was known for strict discipline and harsh treatment of inmates. Many feared him in life, and some believe he never truly left the jail after death.
Visitors and staff have reported seeing his ghost patrolling the halls, as if still watching over his prisoners. Some claim to hear heavy footsteps echoing on the wooden floors, even when no one is there. Others describe a sudden chill in the air, as if Perry’s stern presence lingers in the shadows.
Some reports suggest doors creaking open on their own, keys rattling when no one is nearby and the faint sound of a voice barking orders. People have described an overwhelming sense of being watched, with some refusing to enter certain areas of the jail after encountering Perry’s presence.
A Haunted Kitchen
The kitchen at the Old St. Johns County Jail is another place where strange activity has been reported. Some believe the spirit of a former cook still lingers, continuing his duties long after his time on earth ended.
Visitors have claimed to see a shadowy figure moving near the old stove, preparing meals for prisoners who no longer exist. Others report hearing the sounds of pots and pans clanging as if someone is working in the kitchen, but they always find it completely empty. Additionally, motion detectors frequently go off with no one in the room, as if someone was entering and exiting through the kitchen door as needed.
Many have also described cold spots forming suddenly in certain areas, along with the unmistakable scent of food cooking, despite there being no functioning kitchen. Some believe the spirit is simply reliving the daily routines of his past, while others think he is waiting for inmates who never arrived for their meals.
The Solitary Cell and the Shadowy Figure
For those brave enough, stepping inside the solitary confinement cell is a chilling experience. This small dark room was once used to break the spirits of the most difficult prisoners, isolating them from all contact. Today, visitors are dared to sit alone in the far left corner of the cell, a challenge that many regret accepting.
Every person who has tried has reported seeing a shadowy figure lurking toward them. Some describe a creeping presence that seems to move closer, while others swear they saw something scurry across the room, clawing at the air.
Could it be Sim Jackson, the prisoner convicted of murdering his wife in a fit of rage? Some believe his spirit remains trapped in the place where he suffered, while others think it is something even darker.
Some have reported feeling a sudden drop in temperature as if something unseen was standing right beside them. A few visitors claim they felt a hand brush against their arm or the sensation of something breathing near their ear. Shadows have been seen shifting along the walls, even when there is no light source nearby to create them.
Those who enter rarely stay for long, and many leave with a story they never expected to tell.
The Old Jail After Dark Tour
The Old Jail has earned a reputation as one of the most haunted buildings in the country. Paranormal enthusiasts and TV crews alike have investigated this eerie site, as seen on popular shows like Ghost Hunters and Kindred Spirits. This historic jail’s dark past and ghostly presence have drawn the attention of experts, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the supernatural. Today, visitors can embark on their own exclusive two-hour and 30-minute journey. Our expert guides will share key investigative techniques to prepare you for any strange phenomena you might encounter. You’ll be equipped with an array of traditional and modern ghost-hunting tools, and you’re welcome to bring your own equipment as well. Book your investigation if you dare!
