Until 1953 the clock had to be wound by hand twice a week by a building custodian who climbed into the tower to manually raise the 650 pounds of weights which kept the device in operation.

[5] Bids were taken and in August 1918 a contract was signed with a local plumbing firm for the installation of a completely new hot water heating system was installed based on the what was then new Durham system of threaded pipe and cast iron fittings.

[6] The orientation of the circuit courtroom was changed from east and west to north and south in its remodeled form and the ceiling was lowered by one-third, to a height of 16 feet.

[6] The newly remodeled 35-by-50 foot room is said to have retained much of its large feel, making use of mahogany plywood and a light green color scheme.

[6] The 1954 makeover was also used to eliminate some 20 brass spittoons which had adorned the courthouse's hallways and offices since its original construction.