5th District Appellate Court

The 5th District Appellate Court is a Greek Revival courthouse with large rectangular windows, fluted Ionic columns, and a double entrance door featuring round-headed windows on each side. The classical design conveys stability and authority, as befits a judicial building.

The building was constructed in 1854 and initially served as the southern division of the Illinois Supreme Court until all sessions moved to Springfield in 1897. This relocation marked a shift in how the state's court system was organized.

The building represents early Illinois judicial architecture and stands as one of the few remaining courthouses built between 1836 and 1857 across the state. Its presence in Mount Vernon reflects how local communities invested in proper spaces for administering justice.

The building continues to serve as home to the Fifth District Appellate Court and includes a modern office extension for current court operations. Visitors should note that access to the interior may be restricted since it remains an active judicial facility.

The structure features a pair of curving wrought-iron staircases leading to the second floor, manufactured by craftsmen from St. Louis, Missouri. These elaborate staircases showcase the metalworking skill that was invested in the courthouse construction.

Location: Mount Vernon

Inception: 1854

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

Address: 14th Street and Main Street

GPS coordinates: 38.31361,-88.90806

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:46