Delaware County Awarded Grant to Restore Nation’s Oldest Public Building in Use
Delaware County Awarded Grant to Restore Nation’s Oldest Public Building in Use
11 Aug
11Aug
08/11/2023 Delaware County has been awarded a $522,872 grant from the National Park Service to restore the historic 1724 Chester Courthouse—America’s oldest continuously used public building.
County leaders, including Council Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer, Councilwoman Christine Reuther, and Planning Director Gina Burritt, joined Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon and members of the Friends of the 1724 Chester Courthouse to announce the exciting news. The funding, made available through the Semiquincentennial Grant Program, will help prepare the courthouse for its 300th anniversary in 2024 and the nation’s 250th in 2026.
Located just steps from Chester City Hall, the Georgian Colonial courthouse has served various public functions for over 299 years. Originally used by both Chester and Delaware Counties, and later as Chester City Hall, the building is a cornerstone of American justice and civic life.
“This project will preserve a vital piece of our nation’s history,” said Schaefer. “And soon, it’ll open its doors as a museum and historic site for all to experience.”
The County began actively pursuing preservation efforts in 2021 after leasing the courthouse from the Commonwealth. Planned renovations include restoring stonework, second-floor windows, and walls, upgrading bathrooms and building systems, and adding a small kitchenette for events and programs.
Congresswoman Scanlon praised the project, saying it reflects the “spirit of Delaware County” and will provide lasting cultural and educational value for future generations.