Living History Day returns to historic Thebes, Illinois celebrating Thebes Courthouse Dodransbicentennial

Living History Day returns to historic Thebes, Illinois celebrating Thebes Courthouse Dodransbicentennial

A historic courthouse overlooks the Mississippi River in Thebes, Alexander County, Illinois. Construction having been completed in 1848, it's one of five of the oldest existing courthouses in the state. The Thebes Courthouse, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was completely restored for the 1976 U.S. Bicentennial and has been preserved, lovingly cared for, and continually restored for many years by the membership of the Thebes Historical Society, the Village of Thebes, and generous private benefactors.

Living History Day is set for Saturday, November 4, 2023 beginning at 1:00 pm, and marks the 175^th anniversary of the courthouse dedication in 1848, Thebes then being the county seat of Alexander County. The program includes court case reenactments and other activities. Admission to the event is free, but donations are appreciated to help further the mission to preserve the courthouse.

The Thebes Courthouse is located at 504 Oak Street, Thebes, IL. You may find additional information about the courthouse and the event by going to the Thebes Historical Courthouse website www.thebescourthouse.com.

William J. Thurston, Chief Judge, First Judicial Circuit, will enter a local Administrative Order designating the Thebes Courthouse as a proper building to hold court, for ceremonial purposes, which will be duly reported and recorded as such.

Alexander County Presiding Judge Jeffery B. Farris cordially invites the public to attend Living History Day.