The 1724 Chester Courthouse is the oldest continuously used public building in the country. Now it’s getting a restoration in time for its 300th birthday, and ahead of the nation’s 250th birthday in 2026.

A $522,872 grant from the National Park Service’s Semiquincentennial Grant Program will fund the work, writes Alex Rose for the Daily Times.

“This is an exciting day for Chester and the entire county,” said County Council member Christine Reuther at a Tuesday morning press conference.

The funding will restore exterior stonework, second-floor windows, floors, interior walls, and more.

Once work is completed, the courthouse at 412 Avenue of the States will be opened as a historic site and museum.

“This work will preserve the historical and architectural significance of this nationally important building just in time for the upcoming milestone,” said Council Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer, describing the courthouse as a”true gem” and “one of the most significant and historic assets in Delco.”

Similar grants are going out to 19 other sites across the nation.

Local officials, historians, and community members gathered to celebrate the announcement, reflecting on the courthouse’s rich history and its role as a center for hope, ideas, and civic pride.

Read more about the restoration of the Chester Courthouse in the Daily Times.

Taking a look at the exterior building of the 1724 Chester Courthouse.