Hardin County Courthouse (Illinois)

Built in 1927, it is the fourth building to serve this purpose in Hardin County, following three that were replaced due to fires or fire-related concerns.

As late as the beginning of the 19th century, today's Hardin County was a debatable and deserted land; the advance of civilization was held back by perennial conflict among the Indians of the region;[1]: 27  the earliest residents of the county were squatters, as no land offices existed in the area until one was opened at Shawneetown in 1814.

[1]: 32 The county's obscure first courthouse was a wooden building, and the danger of fire prompted its replacement with a fire-resistant brick structure.

However, this building burned in 1884, and most of the county's early records (including documentation from the first courthouse) were destroyed in the fire.

[2] Built with largely rectangular windows, the building features a small clock tower atop the two-story facade.