York County Courthouse

York County Courthouse

Alfred, Maine

Date of Visit: April 2, 2013

            I visited the York County Courthouse located in the County Seat of Alfred. The building is made mostly of brick with a multitude of offices and courtrooms located on the two main floors and in the basement. It is a beautiful old building that has been well cared for over its many years of operation.

     

Located outside is a historic marker which tells a brief history of the Courthouse. The marker text reads as follows:

                                        YORK COUNTY COURTHOUSE

“Here are oldest continuous court records in United States. Going back to 1636 they include patent conveying the land between Piscataqua and Kennebec Rivers from Charles I to Sir Ferdinando Gorges. Facade is copy of that of original courthouse built on this site 1807 and burned 1933. Town of Alfred. Erected by York County Tercentenary Commission.”

   

            York County is comprised of the geographic area that includes 29 towns and cities. It is the home to many of the oldest incorporated towns in the state.  According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 989 square miles. The York County government has been in existence since 1636.

            The York County Court House is open daily and it is full of historical photos and the architecture is fantastic if you enjoy old buildings. The people working there are very proud of the building and its historical significance. If you visit at a time when the activity is low, like late in the afternoon, most of the staff will share their knowledge of the building with you.