The new and modern Carter County Courthouse is located on Main Street about a half mile from the city center and up the hill from the Current River. Having seen the high water mark at the bridge, I'm guessing they decided that it would be a good idea to relocate from the historic courthouse that has a flood risk. This is the fourth courthouse to serve - the third is still standing. The building is a modern two story stone, wood and concrete structure and while it's nice, it's clearly designed for function rather than form. The front has a center section with glass windows and a canopy over the entrance. It could easily be mistaken for any business rather than a county courthouse. It was completed in 2023. Carter County was created in 1859 and Van Buren has been the county seat since. The county is named for Zimri Carter, who was a pioneer and settler in the area. [Review 695 of 2026 - 526 in Missouri - 25876 overall] read more

See all