The Guard House and Engine House were built as one structure in 1872 with the Guard House at the front and the entrance to the Engine House located at the side. An elaborate ventilation system was installed because the windowless jail cells, situated in the center of the building, received very little light and air. The Guard House had solitary cells, a “dark cell,” and a water closet cell. The house was constructed of brick and sandstone but is now covered with stucco. This mural depicts three men conferring outside the guard house while one man is held prisoner behind the bars. One of the men in the group has his hand on the hilt of his sword while the man with the vest has his hands in his pockets and the third soldier holds a paper, perhaps a court order. A bird flies free over the guard house while the prisoner eyes the other men.