Auglaize County Courthouse Celebrates 175 Years
The Auglaize County 175th Anniversary Committee and many county court officials will co-host an Open House at the Auglaize County Courthouse on Sunday, April 30, from 1 to 4 pm. The event is free and open to the public; attendees should use the Willipie Street (east) entrance to the courthouse.
The landmark Auglaize County Courthouse was constructed in 1893-94, replacing an 1850 structure. It is widely known for its distinctive and well-preserved architecture, including its exquisite interior details, many of which are original to the building. The building currently houses the Court of Common Pleas, Criminal and Civil Divisions; Municipal Court; Domestic Relations Court; the Clerk of Courts; the Prosecuting Attorney's office; and the county law library.
States 175th anniversary committee member Rachel Barber, "Our magnificent courthouse is the embodiment of the strength, beauty, and longevity of our county. We're pleased to work with county officials to allow residents and visitors the opportunity to tour it."
Courtrooms and several offices will be open for viewing, including the Common Pleas Court, with tour guide Judge Frederick E. Pepple; Municipal Courtroom, with Judge R. Andrew Augsburger; Domestic Relations Court, with a representative of Judge Mark E. Spees; Clerk of Courts Office, with Common Pleas and Municipal Clerk of Courts I. Jean Meckstroth; and the Prosecuting Attorney's Office, with Prosecuting Attorney Edwin A. Pierce.. Additionally, former Public Defender Gerald F. Siesel will be on hand to explain the role of this county office. Volunteers Rollin and Kay Wellington and Rachel Barber will also provide information about the history and architecture of the courthouse.