Women's Jail

Historic photo of the guardhouse and main gate from the second floor of Officers' Quarters.

NPS

Quick Facts

Location:

North end of Parade Ground

Amenities

3 listed

Accessible Sites, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Wheelchair Accessible

After the U.S. Army closed Fort Smith in 1871, the Federal Court converted the guardhouse into a jail for women. Crimes committed by women ranged from the illegal sale of whiskey to murder. When convicted, they received the same sentences as men - fines, jail time, or death by hanging. Although four women were sentenced to hang, none were executed at Fort Smith. If a female prisoner with a child had no family or friends to take care of them, the child was imprisoned as well. We know of at least two children who served time with their mothers. During the day, the children were allowed to play on the grounds.