county jail building close up
County History Museum
County History Museum

Welcome to the Windham County History Museum

The renovation of the 1825 jail building and the restoration of the original jail cells have been completed. Exhibits are currently being installed in the three-story building as the new Windham County History Museum takes up residence in this historic landmark. 

Another 100 Years

As the Society approaches its Centennial celebration, it has accumulated an extensive collection of artifacts and documents— much of which has been in storage for decades. With its expansion into the historic County Jail building, the Historical Society is now able to display exhibits which have never been previously viewed by the public. We look forward to welcoming visitors of all ages to explore our past in the new Windham County History Museum. 

County History Museum News

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We thank you!

Plan Your Visit

The museum is currently closed for the season.
Inquiries are welcome year round. Feel free to contact us any time.

Days: Saturdays and Sundays

Times of Year: Memorial Day weekend through Indigenous Peoples weekend

Hours: noon - 5:00 pm

Location: 11 Jail Street, Newfane, Village
The Windham County jail building is on the east side of Route 30 in the Historic Village of Newfane, across from the County Courthouse and the Newfane Common.

Admission: Always free, donations very much appreciated

schoolhouse
sledding on Timson Hill
spinning wheel
arthur burton west river winter painting detail
blacksmith sign detail
civil war drum
Bachelder-Higgins General Store
jail museum exhibit
schoolhouse
sledding on Timson Hill
spinning wheel
arthur burton west river winter
blacksmith sign
civil war drum
Bachelder:Higgins General Store
jail museum exhibit

Highlights

Some highlights of the Windham County Jail Building and History Museum:

  • the restored historic Windham County Jail building, with six double bunk cells and the original amenities
  • artwork by Windham County artists
  • history exhibits on Agriculture & Commerce, the Civil War and other military conflicts, Quilts & Textiles, the old General Store, the one room school house, and much more
  • the intriguing story of highwayman “Thunderbolt”
  • an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, manuscripts, and oral histories relating to Windham County
  • self-guided walking tour of Historic Newfane
  • local food and gifts nearby

More About the Windham County Jail

Windham Country Jail Building

Note West River Railroad train heading south at left of photo.

Additional Resources