Revitalizing History: Exciting Renovations Taking Shape at the Iconic Kane County Courthouse
The renovation project at the Kane County Courthouse, the historic icon serving the Kane County community for 132 years, is officially underway. Also known as the Third Street Courthouse, the building has not been renovated since 1975 and was due for a much-needed makeover. Chief Judge Robert Villa is at the helm of this exciting initiative, which aims to create more welcoming spaces for both visitors and jurors while preserving and celebrating the courthouse's rich history. "We have a duty to preserve these public spaces for the long term," said Chief Judge Villa about the project.
So, what can you expect from these renovations as a visitor? Key areas within the courthouse are being transformed, including the first-floor rotunda, which received a makeover and new furniture. This updated area will be a comfortable spot for citizens and attorneys, enhancing the courthouse experience for everyone with court business.
As part of the courthouse renovations, our busy Law Division courtroom, overseen by Judge Mark Pheanis, has relocated from its smaller Courtroom 350 to newly updated Courtroom 210. Makeovers included new HVAC systems, fresh paint, plaster, and carpeting. The gallery also features a refinished jury box and chairs, creating a more inviting and functional atmosphere for court attendees. Notably, the gallery wall has been moved back, which enlarges the courtroom, increases accessibility, and according to Deputy Court Administrator Jason Mathis, made the 2nd floor of the courthouse functional again. “We now have good volume on all three building floors that house our court calls.”
A key focus of the renovations is to preserve the historical essence of the courthouse. On the fourth floor, visitors can still admire the breathtaking murals painted between 1908 and 1911 by Edward Holslag, a landscape painter, decorator, and muralist who studied art at the Detroit School of Art. (See photos below.) These captivating works capture the rural charm of Kane County and contribute to the courthouse's rich heritage. Holslag's artistic talent isn't limited to just our courthouse. You can find his artistry in the Congress Hotel in Chicago, the Savoy Hotel and Savoy Grill in Kansas City, and the Librarian's Ceremonial Office at the Library of Congress.
Additionally, and most importantly, the courthouse renovations will retain significant architectural details, such as the 1893 vault featured prominently in the new jury lounge. Be sure to check out Julie Mann’s article in Kane County Connects, “What was in the Vault at the Kane County's Third Street Courthouse?” to find out its contents when a local locksmith recently opened it.
Overall, these courthouse renovations are not just about modernization—they blend comfort and functionality while honoring the historic character of the Kane County Courthouse. Stay tuned for more updates as this project unfolds, and stop by to take in the magnificent historical gem that is the Kane County Courthouse.
We will feature more exciting and necessary renovations to the courthouse, including the jury lounge, in our Summer newsletter edition.
Pictured below: A few of the breathtaking murals by painter Edward Holslag.
