When the Carleton County Historical Society was formed in 1960, one of their main purposes was the acquisition and restoration of the old County Court House. In November, 1960, an Agreement of Sale was made with Mr, and Mrs. Frank Hayden, and in February, 1962, the deed to the Old Court House was officially signed.
This was followed by fund raising activities. intensive research, fund raising, work parties, fund raising and more fund raising. With the able guidance and assistance of Peter John Stokes, B. Arch., LL.D., R.C.A., F.R.A.I.C., F.A.P.T.I., O.N., Canada’s foremost restoration architect, original construction details were determined, formulæ for original paints and plaster discovered and utilized.
Older inhabitants provided essential descriptions of furnishings and layout, enabling the acquisition of many original items. Research, mainly by Ken and Dees Homer, facilitated accurate reproductions of items ranging from pewter inkwells through linen towels to wall coverings.
The restoration process spanned slightly over two decades, but the rigid adherence to historically accurate detail resulted in both awards to the Society and the designation by the Province of New Brunswick as an historic site.
The Old Court House was officially opened on June 25th, 1986, by H.R.H. Princess Anne. Since then, the restored Court House has hosted various events, including the annual Victorian Christmas, and is a popular site for weddings. Member of the 2nd Battalion DeLancey’s Brigade, Capt. Allison’s Company, historical re-enactors from Saint John, camped on the grounds of the Court House one weekend in August, 2005, entertaining visitors with displays of field cooking, drill and musketry.