All this week, Tom Davis is giving tours of the Hancock County courthouse. Davis is a retired detective, but he still enjoys uncovering details of the 1888 building to share with fellow history buffs.
"The original cost of this building was a little over $300,000. The stained glass that's in this building, we couldn't replace for $300,000 today," said Davis at the introduction of the tour.
Other facts shared during the event-- this is Hancock County's third courthouse, the building was financed through bonds, and little wood was used in construction to reduce the chance of fire.
The courthouse also has ties to Allen County. The same contractor was used to build both buildings. Another item of interest on the tour, the building actually has four floors. Few people realize that a law library takes up the top floor and is open to the public.
"I liked when we went up to the library," said Caitlin Quinlan, eight year old tour participant.
The only other time Quinlan has been in the building is to buy dog tags. However, 98 year old Emma May Gray has many memories of the courthouse.
"I remember when John Hancock fell. It was a big deal. We were from Michigan, and we were ready to leave," joked Gray, who says she also enjoyed Findlay sesquicentennial events.
The statue of Hancock fell during a storm in the early 1920's. It was eventually restored and returned to the roof.
Over the years, the building has undergone a few changes including a $2 million renovation in the 1990's. However, much of the building's original look remains including the original floors, railings, and ceilings.
"We had to put in electricity, we've put in modern plumbing, and an elevator, but the building still is pretty much as it was in 1888. We've tried to keep it that way," said Davis.A
And if learning about local history isn't enough reason to check out the tour, Davis has another.
"It's free by the way. Not often does the government give you anything for free," Davis said laughing.
Tours will be offered daily through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The tours start at the top of the hour. Special evening tours will be given on Thursday.
