History buffs to raise money to restore old jail

BOONVILLE, Mo. -- Care to consume some barbecued ribs in the old Drunk Tank? How about a homemade brownie in the Hanging Barn?

History enthusiasts are raising money this weekend for the restoration of the old Cooper County Jail by serving catered meals behind bars.

The two-story limestone structure was Missouri's oldest continually operated jail, housing prisoners from 1849 to 1979, Maryellen McVicker, administrator of Friends of Historic Boonville, said Monday.

"The last major work on the jail was about 20 years ago, and I have to say it's in a crisis situation now," McVicker said.

"The roof leaks terribly on the sheriff's residence, the walls need tuck-pointing all around to keep out dampness and our windowsills are rotting out. Even the front porch is fading fast."

The group estimates it needs $50,000 to repair and preserve the jail, where 10 condemned men were housed before their execution, including one put to death in the adjacent livery stable, earning it the sober nickname, "The Hanging Barn." The last hanging was in 1930.

Friends of Historic Boonville is raising repair money by serving barbecue dinners this Saturday evening in the jail and on the grounds, "trying to earn our way to preserving this historic structure," McVicker said. Donations are tax deductible.

The highest-priced dinner is $175 -- a seating for six inside the old Drunk Tank, reachable by climbing worn steps to the second floor. McVicker said beer is available.

Dinner for four in a first-floor cell runs $150. There will be three seatings in each space Saturday evening -- and unlike the old days as an active jail, diners need a reservation. Individual meals are being served outdoors for $7.50, starting at 11 a.m.

"We're not seating anyone on Death Row unless they just insist on it," McVicker said.

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Editors note: For more information, call Friends of Historic Boonville at 660-882-7977.

On the Net:

Boonville tourism: http://www.mo-river.net