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History of the Marshall County Courthouse
The history of the Marshall County Courthouse reflects the growth and resilience of the community it serves. In 1851, Henry Anson selected the site that would become Marshalltown. The first courthouse was built in 1853 in Marietta, the original county seat. In 1859, after a legal battle, the county seat moved to Marshalltown, with records transported overnight by oxen.By the 1870s, the existing courthouse was no longer adequate. In 1883, voters approved construction of a new courthouse. Designed by architect John C. Cochrane, construction began in 1884 and the building was completed in 1886 at a cost of $145,000. It quickly became a central hub for government and community activity.In the 1890s, the courthouse housed a public library, and in 1900 a tower clock was installed. During the mid-20th century, proposals to replace the courthouse were rejected by voters multiple times.In the 1970s, local residents organized to preserve the building. Restoration was approved in 1974, and the courthouse was renovated and reopened in 1978.Since then, the courthouse has undergone continued improvements, including roofing, window replacements, HVAC upgrades, and interior renovations. In 2016, the courthouse celebrated its 130th anniversary, continuing to serve as both a functional government building and a historic landmark.Tornado of 2018On July 19, 2018, a powerful tornado struck Marshalltown and caused significant damage throughout the community. The Marshall County Courthouse sustained damage but remained standing as a symbol of resilience. Recovery efforts brought the community together, and the courthouse continued to serve the public during the rebuilding process, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of Marshall County.
