The old Don Jail—built in 1864 and closed since 1977—is being made available as an event space for a limited time this summer. The former prison facility, now owned by Bridgepoint Health, is being renovated this fall as part of the hospital’s redevelopment plan. Until then, the storied venue—the site of 26 hangings—will be open to the public for a series of tours.
The venue, located on Gerrard Street East, is being managed by Slingshot Inc. for event purposes. The former prison will be cleaned but there are no plans to spruce up the place. “We are not planning on painting; we are planning on leaving it as gritty as possible. We want it to look authentic,” Slingshot's Marc Sargent admitted the venue is somewhat creepy. “We’re hoping that will be part of the appeal.”
The jail has four main event areas with a total capacity of 350. The processing hall at the entrance has a series of administrative rooms that can be used for silent auctions and event administration. The cellblock atrium, the heart of the building, rises four stories with walkways encircling the main space. The governor’s residence and former jail chapel are also accessible, as is the cellblock known as death row. Guests will also be able to visit the indoor gallows, in small groups and accompanied by a jail guide. (Guides can be hired for events.)
“Because of the fire code, some of the areas will be inaccessible to the public,” Sargent said. “The fire department won’t allow access to the cellblocks because there is no exit at the end of the hallways and you can’t get through the windows because they’re barred over.”
High-end portable washrooms will be provided, and an additional generator may be added to provide sufficient electricity, Sargent said. The jail is not a licensed facility, and planners will be required to obtain a permit from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. Event organizers will also be required to supply the jail with a proof of insurance certificate. Slingshot is currently negotiating with a number of suppliers that will serve as preferred caterers and audiovisual providers in the facility.
All proceeds from the venue rental will go to the Bridgepoint Health Foundation. The Don Jail will be available for bookings from May through September.
