The restoration of the historic courthouse has been divided into three phases so as to minimize the disruption of services that the Museum provides to the public.  To date, the first phase of the restoration project on the historic courthouse has been completed at a cost of $530,125.  The general contractor for the project, Zenith Construction, supervised the upgrade of the electrical service from single-phase to three-phase, the installation of a new HVAC system, and improvements made to existing plumbing lines and fixtures.

Certain safety features also were put into place including fire suppression and security systems, both of which afford protection for the building, the collection it houses, and the public.  Additionally, a diesel-powered generator and plantation shutters were installed.  The generator will ensure uninterrupted power to critical operations in the event of an emergency, particularly a tropical storm.  The shutters provide daily protection to exhibits and in collection storage by blocking harmful ultraviolet light as well as damaging heat.  The shutters also serve to safeguard the interior of the historic courthouse and its contents from the damaging effects of wind and rain during inclement weather.

Once current electrical, mechanical and plumbing requirements were met and specific safety issues addressed, the general contractor then focused on interior treatments.  Much plaster was repaired or replaced; missing millwork was fabricated and installed; and, all plaster and wood surfaces were painted.  New light fixtures, cabinetry and flooring completed the transformation.

As the Staff begins to make use of the newly renovated space, the Board of Directors is working to secure the funds for the second and third phases of restoration.  Estimated costs for these phases of construction are approximately $461,000 and $357,000, respectively.  Since opening to the public as a museum in 1983, the historic courthouse has undergone partial restoration as the museum’s activities have expanded and funding was secured.  BCHM’s Board of Directors, to whom a lease agreement on the building was assigned in 1988 after the museum received its 501(c)(3) designation, have committed to completing restoration of the structure.  The Museum needs the community’s help now to complete restoration of the historic 1897 Brazoria County Courthouse.  This will ensure the preservation of not only one of Brazoria County’s oldest historic structures, but also the continued protection of the historical objects housed within it.  For more information on the restoration project in particular or the Museum in general, telephone the Museum at 979/864-1208.

The Battle of Velasco, fought a few miles from the townsite of Richwood in 1832, is considered to be the first blow struck for Texas independence.  Brazoria County played an important role during the war for Texas Independence, both as a seaport and as a center for political activity.  The Brazosport area has a rich historical tradition dating back to prehistoric times and has been involved in aspects of Texas.