History of Kane County Jails

Jail at Kane County Courthouse
1837-1844

In the early 1840’s it was obvious that the current courthouse/jail was not large enough to deal with the growing demands of the County.
 
 
 

Jail at Kane County Courthouse
1844-1856

So a new courthouse and jail was built in 1844 and located at the present site of the Geneva City Hall (State St. and 1st St.) But with the growth of the county it was only ten years before the County was again looking to enlarge the courthouse and jail.
 
 
 

Jail at Kane County Courthouse
1856-1890

And a new courthouse was born!
Bigger, better and more beautiful than anyone could imagine.
But not fireproof!
 
 
 

Third Street Jail
1892-1975

In 1892 the Third Street Jail was erected and the jail was finally a ‘stand alone’ building. The building was three stories tall and housed the Sheriff’s residence.

After nearly eighty years, the structure was cited for many building code violations and overcrowding of prisoners.
 
 
 

Fabyan Parkway Jail
1975-Current

The current jail began operations at its location at 777 E. Fabyan Parkway—the first time the Jail would be separated from the proximity of the Courthouse. This jail was considered as ‘state of the art’ and was built to meet the standards of the Illinois Department of Corrections. Originally built to hold 102 inmates, the current jail has had three additions and its interior space rearranged so that it now officially holds 399 inmates. The population of the jail averages over 500 daily.