Old Courthouse Center
101 North Johnson Street, Woodstock, IL 60098
Architecture
The Old Courthouse Center in Woodstock Square, restored in 2023, blends 19th-century charm with modern amenities. Built in 1857, it housed county offices, a jail, and notable figures like Eugene Debs.
Located in the heart of Woodstock Square, just 50 miles from Chicago and accessible via Metra, the Old Courthouse Center is a beautifully restored historic gem. Originally built in 1857, the Old McHenry County Courthouse and adjoining Sheriff’s House and Jail have undergone a major revitalization, completed in 2023, blending 19th-century charm with modern amenities.
Designed by renowned architect John Mills Van Osdel, the Courthouse has stood for over 160 years, serving as a government hub, a sheriff’s residence, and even housing historic figures like labor leader Eugene Debs. The Sheriff’s House and Jail, added in 1887, housed notorious Prohibition-era criminals and played a key role in local law enforcement history.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Old Courthouse Center preserves intricate architectural details, such as the hand-painted ceiling of the main courtroom, while offering a vibrant space for businesses, cultural events, and visitors. A symbol of Woodstock’s heritage, it continues to be a focal point for community life and historic appreciation.
More Information
- Mon: 9:00am – 5:00pm
- Tue: 9:00am – 5:00pm
- Wed: 9:00am – 5:00pm
- Thu: 9:00am – 5:00pm
- Fri: 9:00am – 5:00pm
- Sat: 10:00am – 4:00pm
- Sun: 11:00am – 2:00pm
How to find us?
What's happening nearby...
McHenry County Fair
McHenry County Fairgrounds • Jul 29 – Aug 03
You'll find all your county fair favorites, from exhibits, vendors and livestock shows to all the fair delicacies (funnel cake, anyone?) Of course, there's a carnival…
Read more about McHenry County Fair