Baldwin County courthouse ruins rededicated

BLAKELY, Ala. (WALA) - Nearly 200 years ago, a courthouse deep within Blakeley State Park served justice for the budding township.

Yellow fever stalled the courthouse's construction and, eventually, Blakeley's growing population.

Executions by hanging took place on a massive 400-year-old oak just 75 yards away.    

On Sunday, Alabama Governor Robert Bentley helped celebrate the protection and significance of the courthouse foundation’s ruins and their historical significance.

“I love history and I especially love the history of the state of Alabama ... As we look around and we see historic places like this we need to make sure we do preserve them,” said Bentley.

Photos: Baldwin County Courthouse Ruins Dedication

Blakeley State Park received a federal grant to pay for the restoration work from the National Park Service, along with matching local capital improvement funds.

Park Director Joann Flirt, initially turned to Governor Bentley for funding.

“She said we need some money, I said we sure do,” he said.

The Governor used the opportunity to address the state's looming budget deficit.

“And we need to use the money in the right places. I truly believe once we get back on our feet — which we're going to do folks — we're going to get this thing turned around, and once we get back then we will be able to fund more adequately places like Blakeley,” Bentley said.