Charlotte County Historical Center
Save Our Courthouse
Debunking the Myths
Concerning the Charlotte County Courthouse
Myth 1 – It’s a “sick” building.
No, not at all. While the roof was damaged by Hurricane Charley, the basic building is sound. The additions added in the 1960s did have problems but have been removed.
Myth 2 – “Everyone” wants the courthouse torn down.
Hardly. While newcomers to Charlotte County and Punta Gorda have no allegiance to the courthouse, most long-time residents have very strong feelings for the building – many have had life or career defining moments in the courthouse.
Myth 3 – It will cost $50,000 a year to pump the water from an artesian well in the basement. No. The water in the basement is not an artesian well, but ground water which is usually handled by a sump pump for under $20 per month in electricity. Currently, the damaged roof drains are unable to handle rain water properly, so rain water added to the ground water causes flooding. It will be corrected when the new roof is installed.
Myth 4 – Even if the building is restored, no one knows what to do with the courthouse.
Actually, there are more potential uses for the courthouse than there is space. Ideas range from a district court of appeals (which would allow for up to $2 million dollars in funding), providing facilities for the arts community, and a county archives housing the late U.S. Cleveland’s historical collections (making up to 20 possible grants available).
Myth 5 – The courthouse will have no economic impact on Punta Gorda.
From lawyers and their clients, artists and their customers, tourists and residents interested in history all will spend money in our shops, restaurants and hotels. The revenue (and taxes) will provide a major impact on the entire area.
Myth 6 – The courthouse isn’t even that old. Why save it?
Considering the fact that Charlotte County didn’t exist until 1921, by Florida standards the Charlotte County Courthouse (completed in 1928) is a very old building. Even in New England, buildings don’t get to be 100 years old when torn down at 77. Age in itself does not make a building historical, but its connection with historical people, places and events
Myth 7 – It’s such an ugly building.
Once upon a time, the Charlotte County Courthouse was the centerpiece of Punta Gorda, a Neo-Classical style with stately columns surrounded by palm trees. With tiled walls, dark woodwork and high ceilings, it was probably impressive or intimidating, depending on your reason for being there. We, the Save the Historic Charlotte County Courthouse! committee, believe it deserves a chance to look that way again.
Myth 8 – We’d be better served by tearing it down and putting in a parking lot.
The courthouse sits on “county” property – not city property. It’s not the county’s responsibility to provide parking for the City of Punta Gorda.
