Jasper County Courthouse

It rises like a castle from the heart of the downtown square in Carthage, Missouri.

This is the Jasper County Courthouse.

Capped with regal turrets and a skyscraping clock tower, it’s easy to see why this courthouse is said to be the second most photographed building in the state of Missouri (after the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, of course).

Designed by architect Max A. Orlopp, Jr., this Romanesque Revival courthouse was constructed in 1894-1895 and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The building is made from local Carthage limestone, a marble-quality stone which is harder and stronger than Bedford, Indiana, limestone (I learned this from a very informative display in the courthouse lobby).

In fact, there are several exhibits located on the first floor of the courthouse that tell the story of Carthage and its people. Did you know that the first woman elected to public office in Missouri – who also happened to be the first female county clerk in the United States – worked at this courthouse? Her name was Annie Baxter.

If you’re not interested in reading about history, you can see history depicted in two stunning murals.

“Forged in Fire,” painted by local artist Lowell Davis in 1976, tells the story of the city of Carthage and Jasper County.

Another mural, painted by artist Sandy Bee in 2005, was originally located at an area McDonald’s and relocated to the courthouse in 2013 when the restaurant was torn down.

Mother Road enthusiasts will enjoy the Route 66 display, which was opened in the courthouse in 2009. This exhibit includes a detailed timeline of the historic highway, as well as photos and artifacts from the height of the road’s popularity.

I love this photo of singer Guy Lombardo’s vehicle parked at the Boots Drive-In (located a few blocks from the courthouse).

One of the neatest interior features of the courthouse is the open-cage, wrought-iron elevator.

It’s rare to see an elevator like this still in operation. Not only is it fun to ride in, it’s also fun to chat with the friendly and knowledgeable operator.

Ladies, be sure to check out the restroom on the third floor. I know that sounds odd, but trust me on this. The restroom is located in one of the building’s turrets (which sort of makes you feel like a princess). Plus, it offers a nice view of the buildings on the square.

Because the courthouse continues to function as the county seat, the building is open Monday through Friday but is closed on the weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.

The Jasper County Courthouse is an architectural icon, and a must-see for anyone visiting southwest Missouri.

The Jasper County Courthouse is located at 302 South Main Street.

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This article was commissioned by the Joplin CVB, however the opinions expressed are purely my own. The purpose of Joplin MO Life is to highlight all the best that our area has to offer, and when an article is written about a restaurant, business, attraction, or event, it is because I have had an enjoyable experience and want to share it with others.

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Living Life to The Fullest!

I love seeking out new experiences and finding places off the beaten path. I started Joplin MO Life in August 2013 as a way to share my discoveries with others in the Joplin community so that they can learn about the resources that exist right in their own backyards.

I have worked in education and event planning, and have always loved to write. I hold a master's degree in journalism from the University of Oklahoma and a bachelor's degree in marketing from Tulane University.