Spotsylvania Courthouse in Spotsylvania County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Across the Years & $6,700
Spotsylvania Court House Historic District
— Spotsylvania County Museum —
Despite heavy damage from the war, the Courthouse was repaired and continued to serve the local citizens. In 1876, a belfrey and bell were added. By 1900, the Courthouse was in a serious state of disrepair. The Commissioners undertook repairs that radically changed its appearance and functions. The second floor was removed over the courtroom as well as the windows. An addition was added with a small 2nd floor and the building was re-faced in gray brick purchased from Alexandria, VA.
[Captions:]
This 1888 post card by R.A. Kishpaugh of Fredericksburg, shows the border wall built by Gabriel Long in 1838 for $5.25.
In 1880, the area adjacent to the Courthouse was laid out in 1/2 acre lots. Victorian style homes would follow.
Gathering at the Courthouse resulted in the rare capture of Spotsylvania's leading citizens between 1885 and 1890.
In this photo, the changes to the building can be seen. The side door was replaced by a window and moved to the new addition.
The B.F. Smith Fireproof Construction Company of Washington, D.C., was engaged to complete the renovation at a cost of $6,700. The county was forced to float a loan. Architectural drawing (above) circa 1900, specified the window and door heights.
Erected by
this page online
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Government & Politics • Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1876.
Location. 38° 12.083′ N, 77° 35.335′ W. Marker is in Spotsylvania Courthouse, Virginia, in Spotsylvania County. Marker is on Courthouse Road (Virginia Route 208) north of Brock Road (County Road 613), on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 9101 Courthouse Rd, Spotsylvania VA 22553, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Battle of Spotsylvania (a few steps from this marker); Spotsylvania County Honor Roll (a few steps from this marker); Fisticuffs on the Courthouse Lawn and other Political Drama (within shouting distance of this marker); The Corner Store (within shouting distance of this marker); Legend, Lore and Fact (within shouting distance of this marker); Chancellor's (within shouting distance of this marker); An Unexpected End to Life (within shouting distance of this marker); Spotsylvania Court House (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Spotsylvania Courthouse.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 20, 2023. It was originally submitted on February 20, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 66 times since then and 16 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 20, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
