The Monroe County Courthouse sits on a grand square surrounded by thriving restaurants, bars and…read moreshops. There is an energy around the square that I have not seen at other county courthouses. The courthouse building, completed in 1907 is constructed of Indiana limestone (of course). There is a large copper dome on top and four large clocks around the tower. A limestone-carved Lady Liberty sits over the main entrance with a male figure sitting beside her. The building is National Registered as a Historic Place. The Courthouse is surrounded by memorials. The is a really nice Viet Nam memorial on the West side with beautifully cared for flowering plants. On the East side is a War Memorial commentating those who served in multiple wars back to the Spanish American War. Other memorials honor local public servants. This is very much a working Courthouse housing the Circuit Court. Residents can register to vote here. Landscaping is variable around the courthouse with parts needing care. Many of the statues and the exterior of the courthouse building are in need of cleaning.

Monroe County was formed by the Indiana General Assembly and Bloomington was selected as the county…read moreseat in 1818. A one-story two-room log cabin was the original. The second courthouse was built here between 1819-1826 and was two stories with brick and a stone foundation. It was expanded a couple of times but was eventually demolished for the construction of this new courthouse. The current stricture was build in 1908 and is in the Beaux Arts style. It is large, majestic and absolutely lovely. You'll want to try spotting the weather vane on the top of the dome which was saved from the original courthouse. The grounds of the courthouse have a number of memorials including a Civil War monument and a World War monument (because back then, there was only the one). There is metered street parking on all four sides of the courthouse and the square is surrounded by bars and restaurants and retail shopping. [Review 20563 overall - 101 in Indiana - 1544 of 2023.]

I found out about this place after the post office canceled the passport appointment I had…read morescheduled for my son a month in advance. Thankfully, I learned that this location accepts walk-ins for passport services. I called ahead to confirm, and I'm really glad I did. They don't offer photo services like the post office, so I had to make an extra stop to get photos taken. I had also already prepaid for a money order on the processing fee, but it turned out they accept credit/debit cards or cash for that portion of the cost ($35), so I ended up paying that way instead (since my money order was too much ($50) because of the extra photo service charge I had opted for originally with the post office). The payment to the U.S. department of state ($130) still had to be money order/cashiers check or a check which I had a money order for that. The building itself is beautiful, very historic with a old-timey vibe. I enjoyed sightseeing around the building, checking out all the landmarks. When we arrived, the security guard at the front was helpful and guided us to the correct area. The staff member who assisted us was also very friendly, which made the process smooth. Parking was free and available around the building, which made things even easier. When I called ahead, they also let me know which entrance to use since some were closed, and that was really helpful. I'm so grateful this option was available the same day. It was convenient, easy to access, and the service was great, plus, the building itself was a nice bonus to see.

The Johnson County Courthouse stands on a prominent square in Franklin. The Courthouse, designed by…read morearchitect George W. Buenting, was completed in 1881 and is a mixture of Italianate and other styles. The courthouse is the 4th dedicated structure for Johnson County. (Two previous courthouses were destroyed by fire.) The exterior of the building is a combination of brick and limestone. A central clock tower with working bell is prominent. Several war memorials stand in the courtyard including a bronze Civil War sculpture by John Vawter. Inside, marble floors, curved stairways, carved woodwork and other woodwork captured my attention. A central atrium with a beautiful lit ceiling is the centerpiece of the building. The building is pristine with the most recent renovation completed in 1983. The security guard was friendly and directed me to the clerk's office for information. There are several courtrooms in the building. The Superior Court was close to original 1881 condition with folding seating made of wrought iron and oak. Other courtrooms had been modernized. Free parking surrounds the Courthouse square. The building is fully accessible. The Courthouse is worth a visit if you are interested in architecture and history.

I got that dreaded letter in the mail recently: I was being summoned for jury duty! Because I'm a…read moreresident of Hamilton County, I had to report to this particular court house. My experience being called for jury duty was fine. The people who work here are very professional and efficient. The building itself is beautiful. If you do have to serve on a jury and spend some time here, there are lots of restaurant options to choose from. I ended up being dismissed before lunch. Keep in mind that they don't allow you to park outside of the courthouse itself. There's a free parking garage a block away at which jurors are instructed to park. I would add an additional 10 minutes to your trip to find parking and walk to the courthouse. It's not far away, but there's a traffic light that takes a while. Also keep in mind: Before you enter the courthouse, you have to walk through a body scanner and empty your pockets. It's very easy but also kind of a pain, but I guess it's necessary in these strange and unpredictable times.

This review is for the Clerk's Office of Hamilton County. I needed a copy of my 45 year old…read moreMarriage License for the new Real ID Driver's License. So off we go to Noblesville. After the quick security check, the women at the Information Desk explained directions clearly and made it very easy to find. What a pleasant surprise when we walked into the Clerk's Office without a line or even a wait. Asked what I needed, I told her and she didn't bat an eye, roll her eyes or take the deep, loud sigh. She was friendly, professional, personable and efficient!! She continued and less than 5 minutes later I had the Certified License in my hands! Poof! Was that a dream? Wow! We were happily stunned with the entire process. The experience felt like we had a personal friend behind the counter. If you need to get an old Marriage License don't totally dread the process. Hopefully, yours will go as smoothly as ours.

The Decatur County Courthouse is one of the most famous courthouses in the U.S. For 150 years, a…read moretree has grown out of the structure's clock tower, grabbing the attention of visitors. The Courthouse is the second dedicated courthouse of Decatur County. Plans for the building were drafted in 1854 by a committee composed of B. Y. Wilson, I. G. Monfort and B. H. Harney. Construction was overseen by Indianapolis architect, Edwin May, who designed the Indiana State House. The final cost of the Romanesque brink structure and grounds was $120,000. The courthouse opened in 1861. Rennovations to update and repair the building have been made periodically throughout the years beginning in 1889 and an expansion in 1997. The staff is friendly and the officer relayed anecdotal stories about the tree(s). The original tree appeared in the 1870s. Additional sprouts appeared over the years, but have been culled to protect the structure. The tree that exists today is a spout of the original tree. The tree has been identified as a large tooth aspen. Inside the courthouse has been preserved throughout history. Iron stairs ascend to the second floor courts. Original oak trim and some furniture adorn the halls. Historical transfer books neatly stacked in cubbies. Court was in session, so I was unable to visit the courtrooms. Framed historical newspaper articles tell stories from the past. The Courthouse is uniquely poised for visitors. On the immaculate grounds surrounding the Courthouse are a War Memorial and several historic markers.

I was drawn here by the "See the tree" signs as I exited the interstate to fill up with gas. I…read moreended up staying for a few hours to use one of the power outlets that are along the curb of the courthouse to charge up my house battery in the Sprinter van. While here, I enjoyed the markers in the courthouse and of course, the tree. The marker reads, "Site of the original court house built in 1827 and occupied until 1854. Present building completed in 1860. Large tooth aspen tree appeared in 1870 on the roof of the 115 foot clock tower. In July, 1863, it became a temporary armory while troops bivouacked on the lawn. The treasurer's office held provisions to feed 10 regiments. The 7th Regimental Band had played weekly on the square before being militarized. Many political figures have given speeches from the steps. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973." Yes, there is a tree growing on the roof. It was noticed in 1870 and it's a tourist draw. Yes, a real tree. [Review 20519 overall - 65 in Indiana - round number 1500 of 2023.]

I was excited to visit the Bartholomew County Courthouse in Columbus because the Victorian…read morestructure is whimsical and lovely. The building was designed by Isaac Hodgson completed in 1874. The building is Registered as a Historic Landmark. The building is constructed of red brick and trimmed with limestone. The Courthouse is very much a working courthouse. The building house the Circuit Court and two Superior Courts. A person can get a marriage license, pay property taxes or go directly to jail here. I was excited about going inside and seeing what's in those fabulous towers. However, there is no walking tour and no photos are allowed inside. In fact, you must turn your phone off. The interior has been renovated multiple times removing original details. There was no grand atrium that I have seen in other Indiana courthouses. There is a lovely spiral staircase that goes up to the third floor. The courtrooms do have older style (1930's) chairs and bookcases. Many of the doors are antique as well. The courtyard outside has a gorgeous garden and water fountain. There are several war memorials surrounding the building. The grounds are immaculate. There is free parking around the square. Entrants to the building go through security. The guard was all business. There is an ADA access at a different entrance than the front. The businesses surrounding the courthouse are thriving. I would recommend a visit to the grounds of the courthouse as part of a visit to Columbus.

My second courthouse in Indiana and so far, I remain impressed. This is a beautiful structure and…read morewell worth a visit even if you're not here for court business. Batholomew County was formed in 1821and the count seat of Columbus was originally called Tiptona after John Tipton donated thirty acres for the building. Tipton went on to serve as state representative, Indian agent, and United States senator. The building was designed by Isaac Hodgson and was completed in 1874. It is the county's fourth courthouse and is in the Second Empire style. Constructed of red brick with white limestone trim, the foundation is rusticated blue limestone. It was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. [Review 20522 overall - 68 in Indiana - 1503 of 2023.]

This memorial is dedicated to all the county's veterans of all wars and dates back to 2005. It is…read morelocated in downtown Martinsville, which was pretty dead when I was there. And that was midday Saturday. It should be noted that the park closes at 6 PM each day There is a lot of free street parking available within a reasonable walking distance. The park has a large granite pillar, a soldier's cross sculpture, a small flower garden, a stage and a brick walk with individual bricks dedicated to veterans. There is a directory in the park that helps people find a specific brick of a person that they are looking for. There is also a small granite sculpture titled "Home Front - Family and Friends", which is dedicated to the people that provided support from home. It is rare to see that group honored. They are often times overlooked, but I am glad to see it here. The tall pillar is dedicated to the Morgan County Veterans Who Died in the Wars of the 20th Century (featuring the Korean Conflict, Vietnam Conflict and the War on Terrorism). It also has a quote by Daniel Webster and an eagle with raised wings perched on top. The center piece of the park is a 2-sided large granite wall that has the logos of each branch of service, "Morgan County Veterans Memorial", and my favorite quote, "Freedom is not Free". You will find engraved scenes coving the back side of the wall and filling in space on the front side. This is a somewhat peaceful spot and is intended for a place where its visitors can reflect. This is a nice gesture to honor the county's heroes. The maintenance of it has seemed to slipped a bit, as the landscaping has begun to get out of hand, the stage could use a coat of paint and the memorials could be a bit cleaner. This is an easy fix though and would only take a few hours as an organized project. All in all a very nice tribute and is easily accesible. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.

This memorial is thoughtfully arranged with a complete range of veterans from early wars to our…read moremost current. Veterans names are emblazoned on the black marble surfaces. The park itself is gated and has numerous bricks inlaid to the floor of the plaza, many of them with names of supporters of the memorial. Our government flags fly over the plaza. Review #634

The Brown County Court House is located in the county seat of Nashville, Indiana. The Court House…read moreis home to the Circuit Court. Unlike other counties in Indiana, there is no grand square with a domed top building. The Court House is a colonial red brick, older building that stands surrounded by beautiful trees and inviting park benches. The current 2-story building was built in 1874 by McCormack and Sweeney of Columbus, Indiana at the cost of $9000. The building replaced an earlier structure that was destroyed by fire at the same location. The court room and jury rooms are on the second floor and general offices are on the first floor. The Court House is part of a series of historic buildings that tourists can visit. A historic log-cabin jail and historic society are among the buildings. A modern addition was added to the back of the courthouse and serves as the new entry, which enables accessibility. In front of the Courthouse is a small war memorial to recognize those from the area that served.

The Shelby County Court House is unusual by Indiana standards. Unlike most courthouses around the…read moreState, this courthouse does not stand on a grand downtown square surrounded by local businesses. The building is located several blocks south of the town square and is surrounded by other government offices in a campus-like setting. Additionally, the Shelby County Court House is distinctively Art Deco in style and architecture. Built in 1936, the Court House is the third building, replacing former damaged and obsolete structures. Bohlen and Son designed the structure. Currently, the front steps are undergoing renovation. The public entrance is in the rear, where there is also an accessible ramp. Visitors pass through security. The deputies were welcoming and super helpful during my visit. While there is no formal visitor tour, I was welcome to explore and take photos (no courts were in session). The Art Deco atrium is fabulous with classic railings and lovely green swirl marble on the walls. The first floor houses several clerk offices and the courtrooms are upstairs. Beyond the atrium, most of the original Art Deco features have been removed and updated. The grounds are tidy without fanfare. There is a single monument in front honoring those who served in the Civil War and a tree honoring a local deputy lost the line of duty. There is free parking around the building and public restrooms available inside. The building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011. This is a lovely piece of architecture and worth a visit.

This Veterans Memorial in Columbus is the most moving war memorial that I have visited. The…read moreartistic structure is composed of 25 dramatic limestone pillars that tower forty feet high. This spectacular monument was designed by Maryann Thompson and Charlie Rose and unveiled in 1997. The monument honors those who lost their lives during WWI, WWII, Korean and Viet Nam Wars. The names of soldiers who sacrificed their lives and their final letters home, are carved in the pillars. Their stories make this memorial personal. As I read the letters to mothers, wives, grandmothers and others, I couldn't fight back tears. At night, lights shoot up through the pillars into the sky. The monument is located on the Courthouse square in Columbus. There is free parking around the courthouse. There are a few benches around the monument. This monument is a must see for anyone.

Located on the grounds of the county courthouse, this set of limestone pillars is impressive even…read morebefore you get close. Arranged 5 by 5, there are 25 of them. And then you get inside them and can read the inscriptions. These are letters from soldiers sent back home and include the date the letter was sent and then the tragic date of the soldier's death. Usually a few days later. "20 September 1943. Dear Grandma, Well, Grandma, it's a rough road but we have to follow. When this is over we will share our love together. Love, Raymond." and followed by "PFC Raymond Scroghines, U.S. Army, was killed in action September 29, 1943 in Italy." And once again, it is very dusty here. Are you cutting onions? Don't miss this. It is a great tribute to those who fought and died for our freedoms and way of life here in America. [Review 20523 overall - 69 in Indiana - 1504 of 2023.]