Old Charleston Jail, Charleston

The Old County Jail, in operation from 1802 to 1939, served as the confinement facility for some of Charleston's most notorious criminals, 19th-century pirates, and Civil War prisoners. Situated on Magazine Street in downtown Charleston, this historic building has recently undergone renovation, preserving the original design of the first floor while adding air conditioning for visitors' comfort. Guided tours are available for those interested in delving into the jail's intriguing history. During these tours, participants explore the cells, hallways, and areas where Charleston's earliest wrongdoers resided, gaining insight into the primitive forms of torture and harsh living conditions.

One of the captivating stories told during these tours is that of Lavinia Fisher, the jail's most famous inmate and the first female serial killer in the United States. Over the years, the jail has gained popularity as a tourist attraction, thanks in part to its appearances on various television shows such as Travel Channel, Food Network, Ghost Hunters, Ghost Adventures, and Ghost Brothers.