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The Sussex County Courthouse is a historic government building located in Georgetown, Delaware.

It serves as the primary judicial facility for Sussex County.

Visual Characteristics

The courthouse is a two-story brick structure with a central projecting pavilion. The brickwork is red, laid in a Flemish bond pattern. The building features a prominent white cupola topped with a clock and a weather vane. White wooden trim is present around the windows and cornices. The architectural style is Federal, characterized by its symmetry and classical proportions.

Location & Access Logistics

The courthouse is situated at 1 The Circle, Georgetown, DE 19947, at the center of the town's main intersection. It is approximately 40 miles south of Dover, Delaware, accessible via US-13 South. Ample public parking is available in the surrounding streets and in designated lots within a two-block radius. Georgetown is served by limited public transportation; the nearest major transit hub is in Dover.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The current Sussex County Courthouse was constructed between 1837 and 1839, replacing an earlier structure. It was designed by architect William Strickland. Its original purpose was to house the county's administrative and judicial functions.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the exterior architecture. Interior access is generally limited to official business or scheduled public tours, which are not consistently offered. The building is an active courthouse.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the active courthouse for official use. Limited shade is available from surrounding trees on the town square. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the immediate vicinity. Food vendors and restaurants are located within a 0.5km radius on nearby streets.

Best Time to Visit

For exterior viewing and photography, the morning hours (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) offer favorable lighting on the east-facing facade. The best months for visiting Georgetown are April through October, offering mild weather conditions.

Facts & Legends

The courthouse square, known as "The Circle," is a unique octagonal layout, a design feature found in only a few other county seats in the United States. This design was intended to prevent disputes over which street was the "main" street.

Nearby Landmarks

• Old Sussex County Courthouse (0.1km West)
• Sussex County Historical Society Museum (0.2km North)
• Town of Georgetown Municipal Building (0.3km East)
• Bramhall Square (0.4km South)