Jailhouse Junkees Opens Cells For Unique Shopping Stop

A local business crossed the highway in Neligh.

Sandy Knapp, who previously operated the Loft, opened the doors to her store in in her new location on Wednesday.

While address is new the location has a unique history.

Located now at the old jailhouse along Highway 275, Jailhouse Junkees has transformed a historical city landmark into a funky store.

Upon entrance, one will discover old gymnasium wood has been repurposed in the building.  A shabby chic section can be found in the repurposed women’s cell inside.  The cells in the main part of the jail have also been repurposed to feature antique farm items and “guy stuff”.  A vast array of antiques and repurposed items are organized throughout the main floor.  

Knapp said the historical story behind the building was something she was excited about when she purchased the old jail.  

“When this came up for auction in December, I knew I wanted to purchase the jail and move my store there,” Knapp said. “This is the perfect place for me. I love meeting people, history and junk. Having all three of those things together is my favorite part of my business.”

Before she took ownership of the building, the Antelope County Jail was the location of a museum until it moved into its current location.  Knapp said she wants to preserve the history behind the jail as she continues with the Jailhouse Junkees 

“There’s a lot of people who just like history, and if they come through they may stop for just that,” Knapp said.

While this has been a lifelong interest for Knapp, she has only recently transitioned into making a business out of it in the last five years. 

“I have always liked garage sales and thrift stores. My grandma took me garage saling when I was 8 years old, and I always attributed my interest in these things to her and that experience,” Knapp said.  

Knapp said she is looking forward to the upcoming Bargain Buyway to share her new location with people, including vendors who will be set up outside the jailhouse for the weekend. 

Now that she has officially opened, Knapp said her next project is to take on the upstairs, turning it into a historical display as well. She anticipates the second floor, which was where the sheriffs’ families lived in the 60 years that it operated, will be open in June.

“It’s a fun store in a fun place. This is absolutely the perfect location for me.” Knapp said.