The building served as a prison and headquarters of the Columbus Police Department until a fire demolished the structure in 1920.

The building was located at the northwest corner of Town and South Scioto Streets (near the present-day Civic Center Drive) in the city's downtown.

[3] The building's main entrance was on its east side, flanked by two large, elegantly-designed gas lampposts, made of iron and glass.

The rooms were described as large, well-heated, well-lit, and perfectly ventilated and sewered, keeping away foul odors and air.

[4] Some wooden cells on the first floor, the only ones not made of iron, were used for detaining witnesses, peoples sick and injured, and the "better class of female prisoners".

[6] The prison was commissioned by police commissioner David W. Brooks, grandson of a pioneering family of Columbus.

Councilmembers, a committee, and the Barracks Band received visitors inspecting the prison, offices, courtroom, drill room, and hospital.