PAOLI— The Orange County Courthouse will celebrate its 175th anniversary on Sunday, Sept. 14, with an afternoon of activities recognizing the building’s history and the community it serves.
The celebration runs from 3 to 7 p.m. on the courthouse lawn under the theme “Honoring Our Past—Lighting the Way Forward.”
Events begin at 3 p.m. with a rededication of the courthouse and a new flagpole. Scheduled speakers include Judges Owen, Andry, and Blanton, along with Commissioners Richard Dixon, Steve Hopper, and Marshall Noble. Historian Robert Henderson will also take part.
From 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., residents can gather downtown for free fried chicken, pies, and potato salad, while local storytellers share “Tales of Orange County.” A book signing with historians and authors will follow from 4 to 6 p.m.
Other highlights include hot air balloon rides from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., guided courthouse tours throughout the afternoon, and a tree-planting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. The day concludes with a lantern lighting at 6:30 p.m.
The Orange County Courthouse, completed in 1850, has stood as a landmark in Paoli for generations. Organizers said the anniversary celebration is designed to honor the county’s past while looking ahead to its future.
