It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977 as a part of the County Courthouses in Iowa Thematic Resource.

[4] The Van Buren County commissioners accepted a bid of $6,500 from James Hall and John Fairman on May 30, 1840, for construction of the courthouse, with Sewall Kenny and Henry King named as building agents.

[4] However, early the following January the commissioners relieved the agents of their duties and named Edwin Manning to finish the construction.

Still in use, the Van Buren County courthouse received a major interior restoration over a two-year period between 1981 and 1983, improving safety while preserving much of the original look and feel.

While still serving as an active courtroom, the building also features historical displays, photos of former judges, portraits, and maps.