Four courthouses have been built at this site. The first was built in 1823 after Missouri became a state in 1821. The second and third were built in 1848 and 1885, respectively. The fourth and current courthouse was dedicated on October 13th, 1927. During its construction, there was interest in using locally sourced red granite, but Bedford limestone and Carthage marble were used instead. It is said that the building has an entrance on each side so that no business would have to face the back of the courthouse.