The Publick Gaol (Jail) Interior, Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

The Publick Gaol (jail) at Colonial Williamsburg is an impressive structure, though not very large.  Above, the courtyard between the four cells and the front wall is presented.  Below, is the interior of a cell with its heavily barred windows and toilet facilities in the corner.  On a hot, humid Virginia Summer day, it certainly would not have been the place to be. Among the celebrated "guests" at the gaol were some of Blackbeard's crew.

The Public Gaol (Jail), Williamsburg, Virginia

The Public Gaol (jail) in Colonial Williamburg was built in the early 1700's after Williamsburg became the capitol of the Virginia Colony in 1699.  Along with ordinary thieves and debtors, it was also the temporary home of some of Blackbeard's pirate crew.