[1] It was replaced by the Central North Correctional Centre in the town of Penetanguishene, about 47 km northwest of Barrie.

The gaol was designed by Toronto architect Thomas Young, who subscribed to the contemporary theory that a polygonal structure would make the occupants feel less confined.

It is built from limestone from the quarry at Longford on the east side of Lake Couchiching.

[5] The last inmate to reside at the Barrie Gaol was transferred to the Penetanguishene 'superjail' on December 7, 2001.

The gaol served as the primary filming location for the movie Dark Reprieve (2008).