The historic Hidalgo County Jail, built in 1886 by S.W. Brooks, stands as a significant landmark from a tumultuous period in Hidalgo's history. This two-story structure, crafted with handmade brick and featuring a distinctive corbeled cornice along its roofline, served as the county's jail during a time when outlaw raids were still prevalent. Notably, it also housed "The Hidalgo Advance," the city’s first newspaper, from 1904 to 1908. The building remained in use until the county seat was relocated to Chapin (now Edinburg) in 1908. Its rich history and unique architecture make it an ideal location for period films or historical documentaries.