FRIDAY SKY - ST. CHARLES COURTHOUSE

These photos of the courthouse were taken after we attended Fete de Glace in historic downtown St. Charles way back on January 29th. It seemed so long ago because it was the last outdoor activity before the monster storm that paralyzed the area the first few days of February. Then I was sort-of sick for three days earlier this week. Therefore, I have to go “dumpster diving” since I did not take any photos the last 2 weeks.

Friday, February 11th – It was a beautiful sunny day today. Around town, the lines at the car wash were extended around the corner. I debated whether I should even try to get my car washed since it would get dirty quickly because there were puddles all over the roads from the melted snow. I decided to take care of a few errands in the morning. I picked up the contact lenses that were ordered three weeks ago. In the afternoon, I met with a volunteer coordinator at a local hospital for an interview to assist in their hospice program. Previously I completed the training in 2003 (I had to quit when I broke my foot in 2004), I might have to take refresher courses which I am willing to do.
At around 5:30 p.m. when most of the people either already got their cars washed or rushing home to get ready for dinner, I found a brushless, touch less place that offered free vacuuming. It felt good to drive in a sparkling cleaned car!

CARLINVILLE ON ROUTE 66, ILLINOIS

This Macoupin County Courthouse in Carlinville, Illinois is recognized as the most magnificient courthouse in the State. It is one of the largest courthouses in the U.S., second only to a courthouse in New York. Designed by E. E. Meyers in 1867, the building began as a $50,000 (that is fifty thousand dollars) project. When it was finally completed in 1870, the total cost was $1.3 million. It took the County 40 (that is forty) years to pay it off. The building was made of limestone and a great example of the mid-1800s Renaissance Revival style architecture.
This scandalous cost inspired the nickname of "Million Dollar Courthouse" which people are still talking about. Something never changes when it comes to politicians spending taxpayers' money or using their elected positions to obtain personal financial gains while pretending to do something nice for the people.

Above is the Macoupin County Jail of 1869, across the street from the Million Dollars Courthouse. It was in operation until 1988. This Gothic Revival stone structure has cannon-balls embedded within the walls to help prevent jail breaks. Only one person ever escaped and was apprehended a few blocks away. (I wonder if the reason was because of the security of the jail or in such little town where everyone knows everybody, it is hard to run away as a prisoner, trying to blend in with the locals.)

From the photo below, I am not sure if Benjamin was trying to break out of jail or pretending to be the prison guard!