Rockingham County sells century‑old former jail building to private buyers, officials say

Rockingham County commissioners announced on Jan. 6 that the county has sold the county’s old jail building, located across from the old courthouse, to a private family. Officials did not disclose the purchase price or the buyer’s specific redevelopment plans.

Why it matters: The property had been vacant and deteriorating in recent years, county officials said. Putting the structure back into private ownership removes county responsibility for the building’s upkeep and could lead to renovation or reuse, depending on the buyer’s plans.

What was said: Daniel Cruz said the purchasers were “ecstatic” and that commissioners were pleased to transfer the long‑vacant property. Chairman Berger recalled that when he began practicing law about 25 years ago the building housed some offices used by the court and that the structure has since become vacant. Berger said he did not know the exact age but believes the building “has to be over…100 years old.”

Limits and context: Commissioners did not offer a sale price or complete buyer details at the meeting. The county also did not provide an environmental or structural assessment during the discussion. Officials said they were glad the family buying the building had the resources to address the property’s condition and that the county would make the full meeting recording available online.

Next steps: County officials said they will post the full meeting and related materials online; no further follow‑up actions or hearings were announced at the meeting.