Those Places Thursday: Marion County Courthouse

The Marion County Courthouse is located in the town of Columbia, the county seat. The Classical Revival style courthouse was erected in 1905 and replaced the old wood building that was then being used to hold public records. The building is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This photo depicts the beautiful detail of the design

in front of the building

A plaque to the side of the courthouse explains how the Marion County Courthouse was used as the temporary state capital in 1822 ( of course the old courthouse building was used then ) 

I have been inside this old building many times... to pay property taxes, to serve on jury duty, to attend court, and to research marriage records for my ancestors. I remember that in the 1980's, there was a older man that could be found sitting on a bench in front of the courthouse nearly every day. He wittled away at old pieces of wood, making various figures with it. Many of the towns people knew him and spoke to him as they passed by. (I think I remember his name but I'm not absolutely certain, so I will resist listing it). I also remember that during harvest season, several trucks were usually parked in front of the courthouse loaded with fresh goods from the country gardens and fields. Several years ago, a separate place was designated for the farmers to sell their goods behind the courthouse. During historical times, several hangings took place on the property near the courthouse. The last one occurred in 1922. There is absolutely a long history within the walls of this old building. If only walls could talk... I'm sure they would have a lot of tales to share.