What’s happening: A grand reopening of the Cass County Historic Courthouse is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 11, with an open house and programming scheduled from 3 to 6 p.m. Following a $9.6 million renovation of the historic building first approved by Cass County commissioners in 2022, the 125-year-old historic site is once again the central hub for the county’s administrative offices.
What it is: Construction of the Cass County Courthouse in downtown Cassopolis was completed in 1899, a stately brick and stone building in the Romanesque style notable for its limestone veneer, unique red roof, and iconic clock tower. The county’s court system would leave for a new building in 2003, vacating the historic courthouse while county offices remained in a 1970s-era annex. The courthouse would remain vacant until renovations began in earnest in 2023.
What’s being celebrated: A team of southwest Michigan businesses led the $9.6 million renovations, including owner’s representative PlazaCorp, architecture firm Intersect, and construction firm Elite Companies. Renovations are said to have honored the historic character of the building while providing a 21st century workspace. The historic courthouse is now home to the offices of the County Administrator, Clerk/Register of Deeds, Treasurer, Geographic Information Systems, Information Technology, Parks and Recreation, Equalization, Veterans Affairs, and the Board of Commissioners.
How they did it: The $9.6 million project was funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Cass County’s improvement fund, as well as a $1.5 million grant awarded from the United States Department of Agriculture. Reads the grant application:
“The Historic Courthouse Renovation Project provides Cass County with an amazing opportunity to breathe new life into a treasured landmark of the County, pay homage to the history of the building and the County at-large, and provide new operational efficiencies that will improve service to the community. A primary driver behind the renovation effort is the restoration of the building with consideration of the original construction and materials. So, as we proceed forward, the overall process will involve removing equipment and coverings that obscure the original finishes and allowing that restored beauty to shine through.”
How to see it: The historic courthouse will be open to the public for tours and an open house from 3 to 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 11. Light refreshments will be available. A ribbon-cutting ceremony and remarks from community stakeholders will take place at 4 p.m.
The Cass County Historic Courthouse is located at 120 N. Broadway St. in downtown Cassopolis.
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