Hardin County Courthouse (Ohio) facts for kids
The Hardin County Courthouse is an important building in Kenton, Ohio, United States. It's where local laws are handled and justice is served for Hardin County. This beautiful building was finished in 1915. It cost about $275,000 to build back then! Because of its history and design, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. This list includes special places that are worth protecting. A historical marker was also placed outside in 1996.
Quick facts for kids |
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Hardin County Courthouse
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East side of the Hardin County Courthouse
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 Location in Ohio
Location in the United States
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| Location | Kenton, Ohio |
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| Area | 2 acres (0.81 ha) |
| Built | 1913 |
| Architect | Richards, McCarty & Bulford |
| Architectural style | Neoclassical |
| NRHP reference No. | 79001863 |
| Added to NRHP | March 21, 1979 |
Contents
What is a Courthouse?
A courthouse is a public building where courts meet. It's where judges, lawyers, and juries work. Important decisions about laws and fairness are made here. The Hardin County Courthouse is a key place for the community.
A Look at the Courthouse's History
The building you see today is not the first courthouse in Kenton. It is actually the third one! The first courthouse was built in 1834. Then, a new one was built in 1880. The current building replaced the 1880 structure. It stands in the very center of the city's main square.
Design and Architecture
The Hardin County Courthouse is a great example of Neoclassical architecture. This style is inspired by ancient Greek and Roman buildings. It often features grand columns and balanced designs.
Outside the Building
The courthouse looks the same on opposite sides. For example, the north side looks just like the south side. The east side looks like the west side. This is called being "doubly symmetrical."
- Columns and Walls: You can see tall, flat columns called pilasters on the walls. These have special tops called Doric capitals. The walls are made of smooth, cut stone called Ashlar.
- Sections and Entrances: The north and south sides are divided into seven sections, or "bays." The east and west sides have four bays. There are also central sections with large columns, known as colonnades. These are topped with triangular shapes called pediments.
- Height: The building is two stories tall. The ground floor is raised quite high above the street.
Inside the Building
The inside of the courthouse is just as impressive as the outside.
- Light and Art: A large skylight lets in natural light. This skylight has beautiful stained glass. You can also see many murals, which are large paintings on the walls.
- Lighting: Fancy chandeliers made of brasswork hang from the ceilings.
- Materials: The steps and the curbs around the courthouse square are made of strong granite. The main walls of the building are built from grey Indiana Limestone.
