Mariposa County Courthouse — Local services in Oakhurst

One of the historic attractions you can see in Mariposa is the County Courthouse on Bullion Street. Built in 1854, this is the oldest superior courthouse west of the Mississippi. Visitors are welcome to enter and view the upstairs courtroom which remains as it did in the 19th century.

You'll find National Register monument markers outside providing information related to important mining cases that were held within this historic courthouse. It seems much of the mining laws that exist in the United States are based on case precedents established in this vary court.

In addition to the upstairs courthouse, there are a few historic artefacts found at the courthouse from the 19th century as well as historic maps demonstrating Mariposa Country and how it was divided and partitioned into 9 different countries between its creation in 1850 and the end of the 19th century.

Visitors can combine a visit here with the historic jailhouse and cathedral located further south on Bullion Street. If you stop by the Visitor Centre on Highway 140 at the north end of Mariposa, you can pick up the free city map which will help you locate these and other historic properties...

What a beautiful location and building! The Mariposa County Courthouse is not only visually stunning but also one of the most historic landmarks in California. Built in 1854, it’s the oldest courthouse in continuous use west of the Rockies—and you can feel that deep sense of history the moment you step onto the grounds.

The graceful Greek Revival architecture gives the courthouse a timeless elegance, perfectly complemented by the giant shade trees surrounding the perimeter. The entire area has such harmony—the neighboring white city buildings mirror its style, creating a picturesque setting that feels straight out of another era.

Inside, the courthouse still holds many original furnishings, and walking through it feels like stepping back into the days of the California Gold Rush. It’s incredible to think that this same building has seen miners, pioneers, and generations of locals pass through its doors seeking justice and community.

If you’re visiting Mariposa, don’t miss this stop. It’s more than just a courthouse—it’s a living piece of California’s early story, lovingly preserved in the heart of...

This is a fascinating place to visit if you're in the area—and it’s more than just a functioning courthouse. Built in 1854, it's the oldest Superior Courthouse west of the Mississippi River and the oldest courthouse in continuous use west of the Rocky Mountains.

Mariposa County itself was established in September 1850—before California officially became the 31st state in the Union. Just four years later, this historic courthouse was built, making it nearly as old as the state itself.

It has been in continuous operation ever since, hosting court proceedings for over 170 years. That makes it not only the oldest courthouse in California but also the longest-active courthouse west of the Rockies.

If you’re visiting Mariposa and love history, this is a must-see. The building is full of character, and its legacy speaks volumes about...