Nearly 100-year-old federal courthouse in Clarksburg getting some major renovations

Key Takeaways:

• Opened in 1932, the courthouse is nearly 100 years old
• It once housed both a U.S. Post Office and a Federal Judicial Center
• Patrons in the early days arrived in Ford Model A vehicles
• Smoking Lucky Strike cigarettes inside was once a typical pastime
• The building is undergoing major renovations to preserve its local legacy

Historic Beginnings

When the doors to the U.S. Post Office/Federal Judicial Center first opened in 1932 in downtown Clarksburg, the building immediately became a cornerstone of the city’s civic life. Its twin roles—as a post office and a federal judicial center—testified to the central place it held in both government functions and daily public routines.

A Local Landmark

In its earliest days, some visitors to the courthouse might have rolled up in a Ford Model A, one of the most popular cars of the era. Stepping inside, it was not unusual to light up a Lucky Strike cigarette, reflecting social norms of the time. This snapshot of early 20th-century culture places the building at the heart of Clarksburg’s historical narrative, illustrating how the courthouse has witnessed nearly a century of change.

Why Renovations Matter

Now approaching its 100th year, the building is receiving significant renovations that reflect the community’s dedication to preserving and enhancing local heritage. While exact details of these improvements have not been publicly outlined in this report, the project underscores the importance of maintaining a structure that still serves vital governmental and public functions.

A Continued Legacy

By investing in major renovations, Clarksburg’s nearly century-old federal courthouse ensures that its historic character will remain, even as it adapts to modern expectations. As the years advance, the community will continue to benefit from a landmark that has proven, for generations, to stand at the crossroads of local life.