Newly-appointed St. Clair District Judge Alan Furr serenades the crowd at the Ashville Courthouse ribbon cutting last weekend.

Citizens and government officials witnessed history in the making Saturday as they celebrated the opening of the newly renovated Ashville courthouse with an official ribbon cutting ceremony.

Leading the invocation the Rev. James Sampley of First Baptist Church Ashville spoke about what the historical moment means for St. Clair County.  “We remind our elected officials that this is the people’s house.  This is the people’s building.  This is where the people come to find justice.”

Improvements needed to be made on the structure that was built in 1844.  Renovations included new plumbing, wiring and fire alarm system.  In an effort to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, architects created handicap accessibility.  The new layout of the building provides an estimated 10,000 square feet of additional space.

“I think we have a serviceable building here that will serve our people for many years. This is the oldest courthouse in the state that is still serving as a courthouse.  There is often a tendency to turn a structure this old into a museum,” Stan Batemon, chairman of the St. Clair County Commission said.  “I think it will still be the oldest courthouse in the state 50 years from now.”

 However, the renovated structure retains the original exterior architectural design.

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Anniston, said he thought the decision to keep the concept of the original antebellum structure makes a statement about the heritage of St. Clair.  “As a Southerner, I really appreciate what y’all have done here to keep a part of your history. It says a lot about this county.”

Residents of St. Clair County showed support and enthusiasm about the renovations that have taken 18 months to complete.

“This is what we call progress,” Wanda Haney said.  “This is what it’s all about.”

During the ceremony St, Clair County District Judge Alan Furr serenaded the crowd, singing the hymn, “How Great Thou Art.”  Officials opened the courthouse for the public to tour and provided refreshments for the occasion.

Following the ribbon cutting, the town of Ashville celebrated its annual Christmas on the Square.  More than 70 vendors participated, providing visitors with an array of foods and homemade crafts and products to purchase.  A game booth offered kids and adults an opportunity to win prizes.  Entertainment included square dancing lessons and live musical performances.