I first came across the Midland County Courthouse when I was in Midland, Michigan for a business conference.  I noticed it when I was driving at night out of town looking for a supermarket.  The building kind of 'jumps out' at you because it is well lit.  That's not the only attraction about the place.  It is uniquely designed.  The shape of the building is attractive, strong and reassuring.  Not like a faceless, bureaucratic building at all. I must say, however, that an addition was put on the building, thankfully in the back, and it is a dull, glass and brick affair.  In the manner of such buildings that side tries to appear antiseptic and professional but comes off as intrusive to the eye. The main building that I am describing is much more a part of the community.  The cornerstone was laid by Professor Dow of Dow Chemical.  Much of the paint materials and other items on the outside of the building are or were derived from various Dow products.  Almost the entire courthouse, except for the addition, was made from local materials.  What an accomplishment! The building is decorated with historic paintings including images of representatives of local Native American tribes and pioneers.  It is a very touching set of scenes.  Along with the building comes a descriptive historical marker (read both sides!) and a wonderful tribute to members of the armed forces of the United States. read more

See all