Historic Court House

HistCthsColorfulSkyThe Lapeer County Courthouse was built by Alvin N. Hart, one of Lapeer's first settlers. Born in Connecticut in 1804, Hart came to Michigan in 1831 and platted the village of Lapeer two years later. He also served as sheriff and as a member of both houses of the state legislature.

Although the date in the pediment, 1839, marks the construction of the county's first courthouse, this building was erected in 1845-46 and bought by the county in 1853. It is an impressive Greek Revival structure. The two-story exterior is of native white pine, supported by a brick foundation. The facade of the full-height portico has four fluted Doric columns supporting the pediment. A three-tiered tower rises at the rear of the building.

The Lapeer County Courthouse is now the oldest courthouse in Michigan which serves its original purpose. It remains a fine example of the dignified Doric style.

How can I reserve the Historic Courthouse?
Michigan's oldest operating courthouse is available for weddings and other special events.  The Lapeer County Historic Courthouse has been a part of its citizen's lives since the county's earliest days.  Make it a part of your family's history by holding your wedding in its historic chambers.

The Historic Courthouse is available both on weekdays and weekends.  It is advised that you make your reservations at least two weeks in advance.  The Historic Courthouse may not always be available without advance registration.  Weddings held on weekends or after hours must be scheduled five days in advance.

You may choose to have your ceremony on the Historic Courthouse lawn or porch steps.  There are no special requirements for using the public space outside of the building; however, it is always best to check with Building and Grounds to be sure that no other events are scheduled for the same time.

You may make a reservation for the use of the Historic Courthouse through the Lapeer County Building and Grounds/Parks Department. A registration form is required, and a Waiver of Liability form must also be signed. Cost for use is $100 per hour with a two-hour minimum ($200) along with a $100 refundable cleaning deposit. Cleaning deposit will be refunded or can be donated for a brick paver with your wedding date on it. Pavers are installed on the paver walkway in front of the building. All monies go towards the Historic Courthouse Restoration Fund.

Please call (810) 245-4794 in advance to confirm availability before mailing in your forms. The Registration Form and Waiver of Liability can be mailed along with payment to: Lapeer County Building and Grounds Department, 255 Clay Street, Lapeer, Michigan 48446.  For questions or more information, contact the Department of Building and Grounds at (810) 245-4794.

Who will perform the ceremony?
You may provide your own minister or you may ask to be married by a Magistrate or District Court Judge.  A charge of $10 is required by the 71-A District Court office.  It is suggested that you call at least one week in advance to ensure that your schedule can be accommodated.

You may contact the 71-A District Court office by clicking here, or call that office at (810) 667-0314.

How do we apply for a marriage license?
Contact the Lapeer County Clerk's Office - Marriage License Information or call that office at (810) 667-0356

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HC JuryBox by JoAnn Jarvis Jackson
HC LawLibrary by JoAnn Jarvis Jackson
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