Mariposa County Courthouse
historic place
The Mariposa County Courthouse, in Mariposa, California, was erected in 1854. It is California's oldest court of law and the oldest courthouse in continuous use west of the Rocky Mountains. It is also the oldest superior courthouse west of the Mississippi. Constructed with local lumber, its framework used mortise and tenon joints and wooden pegs. The original building cost $9,200. A fire-proof brick vault was added in 1861. An English-made clock with a 267-pound bell was installed in the cupola in 1866, and it has tolled hourly since. During the 19th century, this courthouse heard landmark mining cases. Its decisions set precedents for much United States mining law. The courtroom still features its original furnishings. This historic courthouse continues to serve Mariposa County.