The Ross County Courthouse stands in Chillicothe, the first capital of Ohio and a city deeply woven into the state’s history.

Ross County was established in 1798, when Ohio was part of the Northwest Territory. Built in 1801, the courthouse served as Ohio’s first statehouse when the General Assembly convened there on March 1, 1803, the day Ohio officially achieved statehood.

The original building was demolished in 1852, and renovations transformed the site into a functional county courthouse, which was completed in 1858. More than 200 years later, the courthouse remains on the site of the original structure, preserving the county’s rich history through its carefully maintained architecture.

“It serves as a monument to our past but also a beacon to our future,” said Stephen Neal, former Ross County commissioner.

Visitors entering the courthouse are immediately greeted by a mosaic of the Great Seal of the State of Ohio. The seal depicts Mount Logan in Chillicothe against a rising sun. According to tradition, the image was inspired by an early morning conversation among William Creighton Jr., Ohio’s first secretary of state; U.S. Sen. Thomas Worthington; and Edward Tiffin, Ohio’s first governor. The discussion took place as the three men looked toward the hill from Worthington’s backyard.

A wooden staircase leads to the second floor courtroom, where ornate gold chandeliers and intricate woodwork reflect the craftsmanship of another era.

Outside, the courthouse’s red-brick exterior and massive stone pillars frame the main entrance, creating a striking architectural presence.

Ongoing restoration efforts continue to preserve the historic building while ensuring it remains a centerpiece of the community for generations to come.

Learn more about Ross County, its courthouse, and the county’s history in “Seats of Justice,” the Supreme Court of Ohio’s mini-documentary series exploring courthouses across the state. Watch this and previous episodes on the Ohio Channel and check back for future installments featuring other historic Ohio courthouses.

America commemorated its 250th birthday on July 4, 2026, marking a historic milestone in the nation's journey. To honor the semiquincentennial, the Court hosted a year-long celebration titled “The Story of America,” highlighting significant historical events that shaped both the nation and Ohio. In addition to digital content, the initiative has featured special events and exhibits at the Court. The celebration aims to spark curiosity, strengthen civic literacy, and recognize pivotal moments in American and Ohio history.