Jefferson County Courthouse

Jefferson County Courthouse is a Georgia-style building with red brick walls, a prominent Doric columned porch, and a square clock tower located on East Washington Street. It continues to serve as an active courthouse today while maintaining its original architectural details and courtroom spaces.

The structure was built in 1836 as a replacement for an earlier courthouse that had served the county. It survived Civil War damage and received major restoration work in the 1870s and early 1900s.

The building served as the setting for major legal proceedings that shaped the region and drew people from across the area to witness significant moments unfold. These trials connected the courthouse to pivotal events that defined the community's identity.

The building is accessible during standard business hours, and visitors can view the exterior and certain interior spaces when not in use for active court proceedings. It is helpful to confirm in advance which areas are open to the public or if any guided tours are offered.

The site received designation as a National Historic Landmark in 2023, recognizing its role in pivotal legal moments that extended beyond a single issue or era. This honor reflects how one building witnessed multiple turning points in American legal history.

Location: Charles Town

GPS coordinates: 39.28911,-77.85981

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:22