A Centennial Courthouse

This afternoon, the citizens of Montague County congregated to celebrate the 100th birthday of the Montague County Courthouse as well as unveil a Texas Historical Marker in its honor.

Montague County historian Janis Sneed hosted the festivities, which included a performance of "Texas Our Texas" by the Boy Scouts, the announcement of the winners of the art contest (young adults) and the quilt raffle. After Montague County Historical Commission Member Emeritus, Paulette Fenolglio, provided some of the courthouse's history, the marker was unveiled to the delight of the residents of the community. From Ringgold in the northwest to Spanish Fort and Illinois Bend on the north and east, the towns were well represented. In 1858, when the county formed, the first courthouse was built out of log cabin, which served as a courthouse until after the Civil War. After which, a frame store on the north side of the square was supposedly used as the courthouse. In 1878, the Court advertised in Texas Northwest for architects and contractors to send plans and specifications to built a new courthouse, which was built of stone and opened in 1879. Unfortunately, a fire ruined the building on March 31st, 1884. Not too long afterwards a second courthouse was built, but was destroyed by a tornado on July 5th, 1905. The courthouse clock was beyond repair. Yet, the structure was used until 1912 when a "strong wind blew through the county seat, tearing off the roof and breaking many of the courthouse windows." However, in 1913, Montague County and architect George Burnett reached a contract to build another courthouse. The design included "a raised first floor level with staircases at four entrances," and the design was "consistent with the traditional form of an elevated 'temple' of democracy and justice." Once again wind and firestorms wreaked havoc and the courthouse needed to be rebuilt a couple of times. Nonetheless, it remains standing as a testament to the will of the citizens who have helped preserve this piece of local history. Source: Montague County Courthouse, Montague, Texas, 1913-2013 program For more information: http://montaguecountyhistory.com/history-of-montague-county-courthouses-p91-103.htm