Historic Tipton County Jail to Become 17 Rental Homes

HAND and Tipton County Foundation partner to bring new housing opportunities to a historic Tipton landmark.

A piece of Tipton County history is getting a new purpose.

HAND is partnering with the Tipton County Foundation to redevelop the historic Tipton County Jail and Sheriff’s Residence into 17 rental homes, most of which will be affordable. The project brings together historic preservation and a much-needed investment in local housing options.

Preserving History, Creating Homes

Completed in 1895, the Tipton County Jail and Sheriff’s Residence was designed by architect Adolph Scherrer, who also designed the Tipton County Courthouse and Indiana Statehouse.

The property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was named one of Indiana Landmarks’ 10 Most Endangered historic places in both 2020 and 2021.

Now, the redevelopment offers an opportunity to preserve an important part of Tipton County’s history while creating new places for people to call home.

“This project is about more than finding a new purpose for a historic building. It’s about creating homes and opportunities for people who want to call Tipton County home,” said Andrea Davis, executive director of HAND. “We’re grateful for the partnership that makes it possible to honor Tipton County’s history while investing in its future.”

A Community Partnership

The Tipton County Foundation has played an important role in advancing the project, bringing community partners together to explore the property’s potential.

HAND will serve as the affordable housing developer and plans to own and manage the completed homes, supporting their long-term affordability.

“The need for housing in Tipton County cannot be overstated, and creative approaches like this one make a meaningful difference in the effort to bring more families to this wonderful place,” said Chad Huff, president and CEO of the Tipton County Foundation.

The redevelopment builds on HAND’s existing commitment to Tipton County. HAND currently owns and manages Southwood Villas, a community of five affordable rental homes for seniors. Once the jail redevelopment is complete, HAND’s Tipton County portfolio would grow to 22 rental homes.

What’s Next?

The project is currently in the predevelopment stage, with planning and coordination underway. Additional details will be shared as the redevelopment progresses.

For HAND, this project represents an opportunity to expand housing choices while honoring the history that makes Tipton County unique.

Photo Credit: Evan Hale