Hancock County Courthouse, Carthage, Illinois
This courthouse was designed in 1907. It is a Neo-Classical design and is considered to be one of the
landmark courthouses in Illinois. It is listed on the National Register of Historical Places.
Phase I: This phase consisted of repainting the existing galvanized iron located above the main roof line.
The metal had the original paint in most locations. Peeling paint left the metal exposed to the elements
and allowed deterioration of the numerous ornate metal features. Some of the features were the metal
bases at the four small corner domes and the palmetto finials on those domes. On the central dome
there were dentils, brackets, fascias, columns, pilasters, and arches that were repainted. Other ornate
metal elements consisted of acroteria, antefixa and a highly visible statue of “Lady Liberty” holding the
scales of justice.
Phase II: Consisted of replacing the existing asphalt shingled roofing. As requested by the Illinois Historic
Preservation Agency of Illinois, the replacement shingles were a red color. The original roof was of red
terracotta tiles which were removed prior to this project. Also as part of this phase was the installation
of lead coated copper gutters, valleys and flashings. Lead coated copper was selected because of its
durability and workability. There were many complicated details where gutters and valleys intersected.
There was also a waterproofing membrane placed under the roof shingles at vulnerable locations such
as eaves and valleys and flashings around the domes.
Phase III: Consists of repairs to the walls and roof overhang. The roof overhang was of galvanized iron
similar to Phase I. In addition to the overhang work, windows and doors were scraped and painted.
Exterior walls were tuck-pointed.
