Jedburgh Castle facts for kids
Jedburgh Castle was an important castle located in the town of Jedburgh, Scotland. This castle played a big role in history, especially during the Wars of Scottish Independence. These wars were a long series of battles between Scotland and England for control of the Scottish kingdom. The castle was eventually torn down by Scottish forces led by Sir James Douglas of Balvenie in 1409. Many years later, in 1820, a new kind of prison was built on the same spot. This prison was designed following ideas from a famous reformer named John Howard, who believed in making prisons better places.
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Jedburgh Castle Jail and Museum
Building a New Jail
In 1823, a new jail was built where the old castle once stood. The famous architect Archibald Elliot designed this building. Later, in 1847, another architect named Thomas Brown made some changes to it. The jail served its purpose for many years but eventually closed its doors in 1868.
From Jail to Museum
Many years after it closed, the building was carefully brought back to look like it did in the 1820s. This restoration work happened in 1968, thanks to a company called Aitken and Turnbull. After its restoration, the building opened to the public as the Jedburgh Castle Jail and Museum. Today, it's a fascinating place where you can learn all about the local history of Jedburgh. The museum has many displays that show what life was like in the past.
The Traditional Ba Game
Jedburgh is also famous for a special game called the Ba Game. This game has been played in the town since 1704! It takes place every year on the Thursday after Shrove Tuesday. The "uppies" team, one of the two teams playing, uses the old castle site to celebrate their victories. It's a unique tradition that connects the town's past with its present.
