Learn more about WaKeeney by following the links below:

Trego County Courthouse

Address: 216 N. Main Street
WaKeeney, KS 67672
Telephone Number: 785.743.6622
Second Telephone Number: 877.962.7248

Website: www.wakeeney.org/att_courthouse.html

About this Exploration:



In 1951-52 the Trego County Commissioners chose to repair the roof of the historic Trego County Courthouse by removing the original roof, including the cupolas and bell tower.   They also wanted to give their "old" building a more "modern look."   Thus the title of  "the Courthouse that lost its top."  

Then in 2012, the Commissioners voted to restore the peaked roof to the Courthouse.   They were fortunate to locate some of the original limestone and the original capstone which were returned to their original location.

The cornerstone of the courthouse was laid in 1888 and the building was completed in 1889, making it one of the oldest courthouses still in operation in the state today.

Through the years the interior has witnessed several renovations but the original woodwork, court furniture, transom windows, and decorative vaults remain.   The courthouse's claim to fame took place in June 1974 when several scenes from the movie Paper Moon were filmed in the County Treasurer's office.

Open Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.   For a tour or more information, check with the local historian and Trego County Register of Deeds, Evea Rumpel.