In 1835 a lottery was authorized to raise funds to replace the frame structure that had served as the courthouse since 1791. Construction of the new building began in 1837 after the original courthouse was sold and moved to its present site on South Bedford Street. The Brick Hotel across the square served as the temporary seat of justice. Completed in 1839, the new courthouse was designed by nationally known architect William Strickland and built by Layton & Sipple. A major renovation and expansion project was completed in 1969.