PAOLI — The Orange County Courthouse, a centerpiece of the community since its completion in 1850, is celebrating its 175th anniversary. A public celebration is planned for Sunday, September 14, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the historic courthouse lawn in Paoli.
The event, which is open to the public, will feature an old-fashioned picnic with food served until it runs out. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the festivities.
Activities planned for the afternoon include storytelling about the county’s history, a book signing with local authors, and hot air balloon rides. The recently restored courthouse will also be open for guided tours led by Judges Steve Owen and Debra Andry. The celebration will conclude with a tree-planting ceremony and a lantern lighting ceremony.
The courthouse, recognized nationally for its Greek Revival architectural style, was damaged by a tornado in August 2023, which led to a year-long restoration project that rebuilt the clock tower and repaired the chimneys and roof. The building’s history dates back to 1816 with its first log structure, followed by a two-story stone building in 1819, before the current courthouse was completed in 1850.
Several local and state dignitaries are expected to attend the event, which is sponsored by the Orange County Commissioners, Orange County Tourism Commission, Visit French Lick/West Baden, Team O.C., Orange County America 250, and the Orange County Historical Society.
Commemorative items, including souvenir 1850 Courthouse Bricks and new “Orange County America 250” coins, will be available for purchase.
