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Back to the present

(Harbour House Museum photo) Work on the castle-like Iron County Courthouse in Crystal Falls began in September 1890, with interior work completed in 1891. James C. Clancy, a well-known architect in the Midwest, designed the Richardsonian Romanesque-style courthouse. It was characterized by its high-pitched roof, high windows, deeply arched doorways and clocktower. A special feature is the decorative statuary of Law, Mercy and Justice. The tower clock with four faces was not installed until almost 20 years later. It was wound by hand weekly until the 1940s when it was electrified. The bell can be heard for more than four miles away on a clear day. The courthouse was listed on the National Registered of Historic Places in February 1975, the first site to be named in the Iron County area. It was dedicated in 1977.
(Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo) The Daily News has brought back its photos of “yesteryear.” Each week an historical photograph from area museums will be posted on The Daily News Facebook. Readers will be asked to identify the location, as well as share a memorable experience of the location. “Back to the present” will then be published in the Wednesday edition, including a current photo. Readers can comment on The Daily News Facebook page, or email tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com with subject “Back to the present.”

This week’s “Back to Present” photograph, provided by the Harbour House Museum in Crystal Falls, is an early view of the Iron County Courthouse, which stands on top of Superior Avenue in Crystal Falls. The second photo shows the courthouse today.

“The beautiful Iron County Courthouse located in Crystal Falls. I had over 31 years of service retiring as executive assistant in the offices of the Iron County Board of Commissioners/Administrator. I coordinated the Time Capsule to be opened in 2040, as well as various other courthouse programs during my tenure. Loving local history I documented the restoration/renovation of the courthouse in 2004.” — Sue Passamani

“The Crystal Falls Courthouse, both my grandfather, Lester Manfrom and my great-grandfather, Emery King, were sheriffs there. I also worked there for 10 years.” — Kristina Demboski

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