In the protected spot south of the Lipscomb County Courthouse, the native Indian River walnut tree had thrived and grown until its shade reached from the Courthouse to the old jail. Eventually succumbing to insect damage, the old tree had to be taken down in 2002. Cut into lumber and cured out, part of the tree has become the Jailhouse Stand.                                                            

    Sections of torch-split wagon tires frame the walnut. The rims were pulled from a scrap pile out on Palo Duro Creek. The door panel is woven spring steel salvaged from a security gate made by the Tex Anchor Fence Company in Fort Worth.

    Stark white in the sun now, the old jail is quiet—used only for storage. But inside, back in the riveted strap steel cells—if the light is strong enough through the smoke-hazed windows—you can make out dates and names scratched in the silver paint by early-day inmates.