Royse City Calaboose

Built as the city’s second calaboose, or jail, this small structure was used to house prisoners until the 1940s. According to records, the building dates from before 1921, and is predated by a frame one-room calaboose sited about one block west. It measures 16 by 8 feet, with two cells of equal size. Building materials are poured concrete covered with stucco. Each cell has two windows with metal bars. Most occupants were there due to minor crimes, as the more dangerous criminals were transported by railroad to Dallas. In recent years, the calaboose was stabilized and restored, preserving a unique part of Royse City history. (RTHL 2020)