Shelby County's 19th Century Pleasure Park

September 15, 2015 - We know that, in 1885, our historic courthouse was built and, of course, we know its usual function and dominant facade. There are numerous photographs and drawings of it, from early to present day. And we take much pride that it has survived and has been maintained in good shape for more than 130 years.

But not too many people realize that, especially in its early years, its impact as the centerpiece of the town was much more significant than simply a place for holding court. It reminded the citizens that, not too many years before, there was not even a village called Center. Indeed, it provided a park-like setting for a new and bustling town.

Mildred Pinkston, in selected news clippings reproduced in “Shelby County: People, Places, and Happenings,” reflects a rich impression of our grand courthouse and grounds in its first ten years—not because of its obvious visual dominance but because it represented the heart and soul of a new community.

For example, in the early weeks of 1878, it became the venue for an annual "grand ball," serving as a back-up site when, for some unknown reason, the "Center Hotel" was not able to offer proper accommodation. (The identification of the little-known “Center Hotel” of 1878 is found in the next (Oct.) issue of “We the People of Shelby County.” Also, by 1890 such grand events were accommodated by Center’s Opera House, which is discussed in our present summer issue.)

Appropriately emphasizing the aesthetic sensitivity of our ancestors, three different observations in 1894 about the courthouse grounds have been documented by Mrs. Pinkston. In February, several shade trees were planted on the west side. It was expected that not only would they provide shade but "would give the square a most beautiful appearance." Three months later, it was observed that our square looked like a bee hive, with so many people moving around on it.

In August of that same year it was recorded that there was some talk of fencing in the courthouse square, possibly converting it to a pleasure park, complete with flowers and benches.

Our great grandparents must have been proud!