April 25, 2025 - Merced County and the Merced County Historical Society are proud to announce a rededication ceremony for the historic Merced Courthouse, taking place 150 years to the day after its original dedication in 1875. The public is invited to join in the celebration at 12 p.m. on Monday, May 5, 2025, at the Merced County Courthouse Museum located at 21st and N streets in Merced.

This milestone event will feature remarks by local dignitaries and community leaders, reflecting on the legacy, architectural grandeur, and continued cultural significance of one of California’s oldest and most beautiful courthouses. A new commemorative plaque will also be unveiled during the ceremony to honor the old courthouse’s historic role in the life of Merced County.

While the exterior of the building is currently undergoing renovations, these improvements will not affect the museum operations or the rededication ceremony. The ceremony will be held outside the museum by the historical monument. Guests will have the opportunity to learn more about the courthouse’s history, its transformation into a museum, and the preservation efforts that ensure its legacy continues for generations to come.

“This building is more than just brick and mortar,” said Chairman Josh Pedrozo of the Merced County Board of Supervisors. “It’s a testament to our community’s past and a resource for future generations.”

“2025 is auspicious for our community because we are celebrating the sesquicentennial of the Courthouse,” Historical Society President Joyce Mattos said. The rededication kicks off a series of celebrations that the Historical Society is planning.

The event is free and open to the public, and all residents are encouraged to attend and take part in this momentous occasion. Refreshments will be served.

The Merced County Courthouse Museum is one of the oldest buildings in California and is an icon of the County. Built in 1875, the building served as a courthouse and county administration headquarters for 100 years until 1975. During that timeframe, it also housed offices for several County departments, including the Board of Supervisors, Treasurer-Tax Collector, Auditor-Controller, Parks and Recreation, and others.

The building was designed by A.A. Bennett, who also worked on the California State Capitol. A nearly identical courthouse was built an hour south in Fresno County, but was later demolished. Designed to resemble an Italian palazzo, the structure features a white plaster exterior and incorporates a portico with a balcony on the south side as well as a cupola on top. The Merced County Courthouse Museum is considered the best example of Italian Renaissance Revival remaining between Sacramento and Los Angeles.

For more information, please contact the Merced County Courthouse Museum at 209-723-2401.
Source: Merced County