Bamberg County, named for Gen. Francis Marion Bamberg, was formed in 1897, and one of its first projects was the construction of a new courthouse and jail. The City of Bamberg financed the construction in return for the county seat being located there. Designed by architect L.F. Goodrich, the courthouse was built of red brick with solid masonry walls two feet thick. Its original location was on the western side of North Main St., but after Hwy. 301 was relocated and ran directly through the courthouse grounds, the massive building was moved across the highway. Work began in 1950, and the move of 500 feet cost $25,000. At that time the building was also remodeled, giving it a more modern appearance.