Marion County Courthouse

The Marion County Courthouse is historically significant for its role as the center of county government and its design. Built in 1896, it is an excellent example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. The courthouse features a limestone exterior, recessed entrance pavilions with arches, and a large open bell and clock tower with four spires, one of which is used as a chimney. The courthouse grounds include an artillery gun and memorials, one of which was erected in 1920 and commemorates those who served in all wars. Inside the courthouse there is a display case containing Union Army artifacts from the Civil War including a collection of Grand Army of the Republic ribbons from Captain Charles Wells of the 8th Iowa.

Marion County was established in 1845 and it appears Knoxville was chosen as the county seat at that time. A courthouse could not be built that year since there were only 1,500 people in the county. As a result, county officials conducted business and kept records in their homes until the first courthouse, a wood-frame structure, was built in 1846 on the northwest corner of the square. It was also used as church and school. In 1857, a new two-story courthouse was built in the center of the square. The courtroom was on the second floor and offices were on the first floor. By the time it was demolished in 1895, it was falling into disrepair. County functions moved to rented offices until the present building was erected in 1896. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places 1981.

"Marion County Courthouse." Iowa Judicial Branch. Accessed January 11, 2022. https://www.iowacourts.gov/for-the-public/educational-resources-and-services/iowa-courts-history/iowa-county-courthouse-history/marion-county-courthouse.

"Marion County Courthouse." Iowa State Historical Department - Iowa Site Inventory Form. July 2, 1981. https://npgallery.nps.gov/GetAsset/1aa45c52-5768-4800-9853-de5b2631552d.

"Soldier, Peace Tree Plaque and Case of Civil War Artifacts." Iowa Civil War Monuments. Accessed January 11, 2022. iowacivilwarmonuments.com/cgi-bin/gaarddetails.pl?1210251075~2.