Squirrel Cage Jail History
The Pottawattamie Jailhouse, or “Squirrel Cage Jail,” is one of only three remaining rotary jails. Built in 1885, it featured an innovative design aimed at limiting inmate contact with jailers. The cells were placed on a rotating roundabout, moved by a hand crank, allowing access to only one cell at a time through a single entry. This Council Bluffs jail stands out for its three-tier structure, unlike most rotary jails that had only one level. The design earned it the nickname “Squirrel Cage” because the towering cell block resembled a cage used for small animals. Iowa’s last hanged man was executed here and his noose still remains.
Paranormal Activity
Paranormal reports include disembodied voices echoing through empty halls, shadowy figures peeking around corners, and unexplained footsteps in the dark. Tour groups have described being followed by shadow people, and the sounds of moaning have been recorded. Mass murderer Jake Bird, who supposedly hexed six people involved in his trial, is believed to haunt the site.
