Exhibits

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People & Places: Architecture in Washington County

Washington County Parks and the Historic Courthouse invites you to a new exhibit “People & Places: Architecture in Washington County” at the Washington County Historic Courthouse. The new exhibition highlights various architectural styles found in the county from pre-1850 to 1960. Sections focus on Lost History (sites and buildings that are no longer); Early Peoples; Mills & Merchants; Learning & Leisure; Law & Order; Victorian & Turn of the Century; Modern. Artifacts include; photographs, early building plans for area homes and businesses, antique tools, and the oldest building permit issued by the City of Stillwater.

Washington County has beautiful natural scenery, lovely Victorian homes; history and connections to a shared past. This exhibit showcases the County’s rich architectural history and the people who lived it.

The exhibit will run from June 2, 2018-January 5, 2019. For more information, call 651-275-7075 or e-mail historiccourthouse@co.washington.mn.us 

The Washington County Historic Courthouse Through the Years: 1870-Today

This exhibit showcases Historic Courthouse artifacts from 1870-1975, including antique office equipment, furniture, period clothing, a judge's office display, and much more. 

Rotating tabletop displays throughout the building feature the history of area events, Washington County and the City of Stillwater. 

 click here for tour times. 

The Great Courthouse Debate

Within its 150-year history, the Historic Courthouse has had its share of debates, and not just in the courtroom. In the 1960's the courthouse faced demolition during a debate on whether to build a new government center or add-on to the existing space. Saved by the community, the courthouse continued to be the focus of debates and discussion on its use, fundraising, restoration and its role as a historical landmark. 

This exhibit examines the historic and contemporary issues and highlights the key questions posed to our community about how to bring the Historic Courthouse into the future, while preserving its past.