Sue Knepp likely felt a sense of familiarity when she visited the Cass County Courthouse. Knepp, a volunteer with the Woodford County Historical Society in Eureka, Illinois, has been working on a project to identify county courthouses that share the same architectural blueprint, all designed by architect Charles E. Bell. Recently, she had the opportunity to tour our historic courthouse to document the similarities and differences between it and the other courthouses she has already visited.

This project started during recent renovations to the Woodford County Courthouse. Knepp's research on the building's history led her to discover the process used to secure bids from architects in 1896 and the county’s eventual selection of Charles Bell and John Kent of Council Bluffs, Iowa.

“In talking to various individuals, I found there were other courthouses by Bell & Kent and I was intrigued by the man and his design,” explained Knepp. “My quest began and I have discovered a total of seven structures that were built using the same blueprint. Two of those seven structures have been demolished, resulting in five courthouses still standing.”

The courthouses that remain can be found in in Deer Lodge County, Montana; Benton County, Iowa; Fulton County, Illinois; Woodford County, Illinois; and here in Cass County. Smaller courthouses with a similar design were also found in Marshall County and Lawrence County in South Dakota. Knepp plans to use her research to create a book about Charles E. Bell and his role in designing some of the most iconic buildings in counties throughout the United States.

“What I have found interesting in my travels is that even though they were designed by the same architect, each structure has its own identity.  The grand staircase, rotundas, alcoves are common to all, but each county has personalized their courthouse with artwork or items that hold historical importance to the people of that county,” Knepp explained.  “I have been impressed by the care and preservation taken to keep these structures in such a condition that our future generations can appreciate the foresight of our early county leaders.”

Through several additions and renovations to the Cass County Courthouse, the focus has always been on preserving its historical integrity and ensuring it continues to meet the needs of the community. After 118 years, it continues to serve as a symbol of the lasting legacy of those who contributed to its creation. 

“What impressed me the most about Cass County Courthouse specifically was the care taken in preserving the original integrity with the various additions that were made,” said Knepp. “I appreciated the reuse of items that were removed and then repurposed somewhere else including staircases, doors and the stonework from the old jail.  In the building additions on the outside, it was unbelievable how they were able to match the stone and the window configurations.  Cass County should be extremely proud of the work that has been done to protect the integrity of Charles E. Bell’s original design of the courthouse.” 

The current Cass County Courthouse began construction in 1904 and opened its doors to the public for the first time on July 31, 1906. It replaced an earlier courthouse that had burned down during renovations in 1903. The new construction focused on a more modern and spacious facility that could better serve the public and the judicial system moving forward.

The design and construction of the courthouse was a significant undertaking for Cass County. Local leaders sought an architect who could design a building that would be both functional and a source of pride for the community. They found this in Charles E. Bell, a renowned architect whose vision and expertise would leave a mark in Cass County and throughout the country.

Additions & Renovations Through the Years

In 1981 construction on the north addition to the courthouse was started and was completed over several years. Like the original courthouse the north addition is three floors but with a full basement. Total cost of the north addition was $1.4 million.

1985 brought about the start of construction of the south addition to the courthouse. This addition is the same height as the rest of the courthouse but has four floors instead of three with a full basement. Cost of the south addition was $2.3 million.

Construction on the west addition to the courthouse began in 2011 and was completed in October 2012. This addition was built on the site of the old county jail and sheriff’s residence. Features of the new addition include 72,000 square feet of space which is utilized among three new courtrooms, various offices & a secured area to move prisoners within.

In addition, a skyway was constructed over 10th Street to allow for easier passage between the main courthouse and the annex building which houses human services, juvenile court and extension services across the street. The cost of the west addition was $16 million.

The Architect: Charles E. Bell

Charles E. Bell was an architect known for his work on public buildings throughout the United States. Born in 1858 in Essex, Iowa, Bell developed a reputation for his ability to blend classical architectural styles with the practical needs of modern public structures.

Bell's career began in the late 19th century, and he quickly gained recognition for his innovative designs. He formed a partnership with Menno S. Detweiler, and together they worked on numerous projects, including courthouses, schools, and other public buildings. Bell's designs were characterized by their attention to detail, use of high-quality materials, and incorporation of the latest architectural trends.

When Bell was commissioned to design the Cass County Courthouse, he approached the project with his signature blend of elegance and functionality. The result was a stunning example of a style known for its grandeur and classical elements.