City, county installs new windows on Historic Burke County Courthouse

If you have driven by the Historic Burke County Courthouse in the past few weeks, you may have noticed something different about the more than a century old building.

In a joint effort by Burke County Government and the City of Morganton, the windows of the courthouse have been upgraded and replaced. The windows are now double pane and tempered on the bottom level.

City of Morganton Public Works department contracted with Home Solutions to help with the installation. The city’s electric department provided a bucket truck to help the contractor reach the high windows. Upgrades and maintenance of the courthouse is an ongoing process with several more projects coming up in the near future including a new membrane on the “cupola” or top dome of the courthouse, wood repair and replacement, and painting the exterior of the building.

Michael Chapman, Public Works Director for the City of Morganton, said “It is a historic building and in the heart of downtown Morganton, so it is important to make sure it is kept in great condition.”

Linda Lindsey, past president and current treasurer of the Historic Burke Foundation said, “The replacement windows in the Old Burke County Courthouse have made a transformational difference in the appearance, inside and outside, of this beautiful and historic building. They also have significantly increased the amount of sunlight that comes in through the windows and the brighter interior on both floors is very welcome. The building hosts exhibits, meetings, receptions, weddings, plays, concerts and more each year in addition to providing office space for Historic Burke Foundation. In 2023 more than 2,000 people visited the building for one reason or another. The new windows will be enjoyed for years and are much appreciated!”

Sally Sandy, City Manager for the City of Morganton said, “This is a project we were so glad to accomplish alongside Burke County. They did a phenomenal job installing the windows giving the courthouse a much needed upgrade. We want our community to enjoy the courthouse for many more years and these are steps to help make that happen.”

Bryan Epley, Burke County Manager said, “The Burke County Board of Commissioners is excited to partner with the City of Morganton solidifying our commitment to the preservation and enhancement of our shared heritage. Through these investments we are revitalizing the historical courthouse, and ensuring its significance endures for generations to come.”