It has been a decade since Ohio celebrated its bicentennial and work to renovate Burlington’s jail began. But thanks to a group of dedicated individuals, the “Old Jail” project is still moving forward, even if little-by-little.

The Historic Jail Preservation Corporation had a “Jailhouse Rock” fundraising event this past Saturday, the latest attempt to raise money to bring Lawrence County’s first jail up to code so it can be used as a teaching tool and historical attraction for the county.

The preservation group seeks to turn the former jail into a museum or community center, but the opportunities are virtually endless for the structure.

Just as the Lawrence County Historical Society portrays the county’s notable citizens at the annual Historic Woodland Cemetery Walk, similar reenactments could be held at the “Old Jail” featuring infamous inmates, as well as tours for school groups to learn about the county’s judicial system in the early years of the county’s existence.

But without the efforts of the volunteers in the preservation group, the jail might never have had the hope of a future. And although the renovation to the jail has been slow, volunteers haven’t given up on their vision to keep the structure an important part of Lawrence County’s history.

We commend the efforts of the Historic Jail Preservation Corporation and hope the community will continue to support its efforts.