ozarks
roots
the people, places and traditions that make the ozarks home
JUSTICE PREVAILS By Neoma Foreman
Submitted Photos
An unsuccessful railroad venture halted construction on the St. Clair, Mo., County Courthouse for a time Many years of civic and social experiences surround courthouse squares and have transformed them into special places in small town Missouri. This continues to be the case in Osceola, but it survived an awkward history during its construction. St. Clair County, Mo., was organized in January 1841, but the first courts met
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in homes until 1842 when a courthouse was built. This courthouse was at least partially destroyed by Gen. James Lane in September 1861. It was repaired, but burned in November 1864 in Civil War conflicts. An appropriation of $15,000 was approved by voters in June 1866 for a new courthouse. The architects for this courthouse was A.G. Clarke and
Thomas Sutherland, with contractors Hicks and Bacon. The 44-foot-square structure was built on the foundation of the previous courthouse. The two-story building had covered porches with stairways leading to the second floor. Four, two-story brick pillars supported the roofs covering the porches. A 16-foot cupola was added to serve as a bell tower. Cut stone was
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used for the caps and sills of the doors and windows. The building was dedicated with flowery speeches given by prominent people of the area. Progress, wealth and growth were mentioned as county ideals and goals. However, separate celebration balls and dinners were held for African-Americans, remembering the remaining conflicts of the Civil War. MAY 18, 2020