The Old Essex County Jail Complex, also known as the Newark Street Jail, is the oldest public building in Essex County, built in 1837. The new jail was build to replace an existing out of date structure, and the city planned on sharing the building with the rest of the county to house lawbreakers in order to save money and be more efficient. The structure was designed be famouos architect John Haviland, also responsible for the creation of Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia.

The original building was a two-story square structure made of brick and brownstone. Prisoners were encouraged to lead a life of activity, and could enjoy gardens, walkways, courtyards, and even a greenhouse for those on the best of behavior.

Beginning in the 1890’s, several buildings were added to the complex and additions were created. 1907 brought running water and toilets to each individual cell. The jail at this point had expanded to more than 300 cells.

The jail continued operations until 1970 when a new jail was completed in a nearby town. The Essex County Narcotics Bureau used the complex for a short time, but by 1989 the buildings were completely empty. The Jail was placed on the National Register of Historic places in 1991, but nothing has been done in order to preserve the area. A portion was demolished in a fire during the summer of 2001. Homeless often squat in the cells, and vandals have not been kind to the structure.