Metamora Courthouse State Historic Site

Metamora Courthouse is a two-story Greek Revival building constructed in the mid-1800s. Inside, you will find exhibits about early local history and period furnishings that show how the court system operated.

This building was erected in 1845 and served as the county government center for several decades. The location lost its administrative role in 1896 when the county seat moved elsewhere.

Abraham Lincoln practiced law here, handling numerous cases as part of his work in Illinois. Today, the building lets visitors understand what the legal profession looked like in the 1800s.

The main exhibits are on the ground floor and easily accessible for most visitors. The upper floor preserves the original courtroom with its historical layout, offering a glimpse of how proceedings took place.

This is one of only two Illinois court buildings that still stands on its original foundation with a direct connection to Lincoln's legal work. Its rarity as a preserved structure makes it a special example of courthouse architecture from that period.

Location: Metamora

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

Website: https://www2.illinois.gov/dnrhistoric/Experience/Sites/Central/Pages/Metamora-Courthouse.aspx

GPS coordinates: 40.79178,-89.36241

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:40