Feature 164: 107 West Kansas Avenue (in 2011)

Classification: Contributing.
Historic Name: 1827 Log Courthouse.
Architectural Style: Square-notched log building.
Construction Date: 1827 / moved to present location in 1916.
Period 2 of Harry S Truman's Life: Establishing Community Roots, 1890-1919.
Tax Identification: None - government building.
Legal Description: Old Town, part of lot 103.
Description: Hewn log building eighteen by thirty-six feet. Square-notched corners, one story, gable roof, shake shingles, stone exterior fireboxes and chimneys at both ends. Stone pillar foundation, three twelve-light windows. Six by twelve foot basement with 6/6 light sash. East wall covered with plywood, asphalt on shed roof dormer.
History/Significance: While serving as presiding judge for Jackson County, Harry S Truman held county court in this building in 1932 when the current Jackson County Courthouse was being constructed. In fact, he took the oath of office for that position in this building in that year, 1932.
This log building served as the first county courthouse and was originally located at the southeast corner of Lexington and Lynn Streets. The courthouse remained in use until 1830 when a brick building was erected on the Independence town square. It later was purchased by Smallwood Noland and rented as a saddle shop. In 1832, it was sold to merchants Gilbert and Whitney. The building was moved to its present location in 1916. The building was used by the Community Welfare League. The Aiken log school building was added to the rear in 1930. The building is individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places.