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A Visit to the Old Courthouse

February 20, 2010 Downtown, History/Preservation 3 Comments
ABOVE: rotunda at the Old Courthouse
ABOVE: rotunda at the Old Courthouse

In the last two weeks I’ve visited the Old Courthouse downtown.  I had forgotten just how wonderful the building is.

“The majestic Old Courthouse has remained over the past 150 years as one of St. Louis’ most prominent architectural landmarks. Plan your visit to see all the permanent exhibits and special events! The Old Courthouse was the site of the first two trials of the pivotal Dred Scott case in 1847 and 1850. It was also where Virginia Minor’s case for a woman’s right to vote came to trial in the 1870s. You may tour this historic structure, and visit the restored courtrooms to learn more about our 19th century judicial system.”  (National Park Service)

So much history, much of it bad.  Humans were sold on the front steps!  I find that fact so difficult to understand.

We often think of the front as the West side facing Kiener Plaza, but the front actually faces onto 4th Street toward the river.  The wheelchair access is off Broadway (5th) though.  If you have not been before or if it has been many years consider stopping in.

– Steve Patterson

 

Currently there are "3 comments" on this Article:

  1. markgroth says:

    This is a fantastic photo. Well done.

     
  2. John Regenbogen says:

    As a transplant, I've always thought it weird the city doesn't celebrate Dred & Harriet Scott more. And I often think people get the outcome of the Scott case wrong… the Saint Louis jury was on the right side of freedom; unfortunately for the Scotts the U.S. Supreme Court overturned that decision.

     

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