FILE | WCMESSENGER
Crowds will pack into the Decatur Square on the morning of Oct. 23 to mark the rededication of the restored Wise County Courthouse. The celebration next Thursday at 10 a.m. will include a ceremony and public open house tours.
From bag pipes to parking, here’s what you need to know before you go.
Parking
The Decatur Main Street parking map above shows available lots around the Square.
-
Grace Baptist Church (600 S. Trinity Street) has opened their parking lot and will run a shuttle to and from the Decatur Square.
-
First United Methodist Church (104 S. Miller St.) will also open its lot for guests.
Ceremony info
The ceremony begins at 10 a.m. on the southwest corner of the courthouse. State Street and Main Street on the Decatur Square will be closed to vehicle traffic during the event.
If you hear bagpipes and drums, it’s a good sign to head towards the courthouse to find your seat. North Texas Caledonian Pipes and Drums will perform as a prelude to the event.
The program includes an inaugural flag raising by the Wise County Veterans Group, the National Anthem performed by the Decatur High School Varsity Chamber Choir, and remarks from the Texas Historical Commission, local legislators and Wise County Judge J.D. Clark.
Open house to follow
The county will host an open house until 2 p.m., offering a rare chance to tour offices and restored spaces before staff move back into the working courthouse.
Courtesy | County Judge J.D. Clark
It’s a sight to behold.
The grandeur of the courthouse’s interior has been beautifully restored. Visitors can expect to see ornately crafted finishes, rich details, marble and hardwood flooring and the stunning views from J. Riely Gordon’s original design.
ADA access to the Courthouse will be available via the southeast ramp entrance. However, elevator service will not be available during the event. Guests may view the atrium and use public restrooms from the accessible level, but the central staircase will be the only access to upper floors. Organizers say additional open house opportunities will be held later this fall and during the holiday season, with full elevator access available.
Loading Comments