Old Courthouse

The Old Courthouse held the first two trials in Dred and Harriet Scott's freedom suit in 1847 and 1850. Virginia Minor later brought her claim to a woman's right to vote here, while enslaved people were sold from the courthouse steps in estate settlements.The building reopened in May 2025 with four new galleries, two restored courtrooms, an elevator, ramps, and refreshed interpretation. Admission is free, and a daily ranger program is normally offered without a ticket when staffing permits. The courthouse closes on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. More

The Old Courthouse held the first two trials in Dred and Harriet Scott's freedom suit in 1847 and 1850. Virginia Minor later brought her claim to a woman's right to vote here, while enslaved people were sold from the courthouse steps in estate settlements.The building reopened in May 2025 with four new galleries, two restored courtrooms, an elevator, ramps, and refreshed interpretation. Admission is free, and a daily ranger program is normally offered without a ticket when staffing permits. The courthouse closes on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. More