The Old Courthouse ca. 1970s

The Old Courthouse, when purchased from the Cole (Davis) Family by the JCHS had been through several changes of owners.  But until it became a museum in the mid 1960s, it had been home to several generations -- since about 1884.  This photo, a companion to the last photo of the Lodge, was taken by a young photographer .

Exposed sections of the original brick are well documented in this image, perhaps better than in any photo in the collection. The soft brick (clay locally dug and fired by Joe Wade starting in 1838) was covered with stucco before the building was sold by the county.    The windows in the front door and the half circle above had been added by one of the families who lived there, and were ruby red glass.  At this stage, the front porch had been removed as well as other external additions.

Thanks to our friend who shared this great view of this treasure of our local heritage before restoration.