Photographer: Chris Hogg, Coahoma Lodge No. 992

Sadly the old jail at Clairemont has fallen into a serious state of disrepair. The state will not give it
a histrorical marker for reasons unknown. Vandals have some pretty serious damage to the building.
In its day, it was a technological marvel as far as jails go. It was the first of it's kind in this part
of the country to have mechanical doors that were controlled from a central location in the jail.
It is said that in the history of the jail only one prisoner ever escaped, he crossed the street
to the court house and hid in the cupola while the sheriff searched for him. He came out after
a day or so, walked back to the jail and asked to put back in his cell with a cup of water and
something to eat. If you are ever in the area and would like to see the old jail, it is located in
west Texas at the intersection of US highway 380 and State highway 208. Clairemont is a
ghost town and you will not likely find anyone about. The closest town of any consequence is
Jayton, Texas to the east, Snyder Texas to the south and Post Texas to the west. A word of
caution, I once found the jail unlocked and went inside where I encountered a rather large
diamond back rattle snake who quickly informed me that my presence was not wanted or needed.

A noted outlaw, the story goes, lies on a bunk in the Clairemont jail, mortally wounded
by a Texas Ranger's well-placed .45 slug. "Tell me who you rode with and where
I can find 'em," the state lawman orders the dying badman. "Can you keep a secret?"
the outlaw whispers, barely able to talk. "You bet your boots I can," the Ranger replies.
"So can I," the outlaw says and with that, he died.