By Alexa Pellerino
PAMA features tons of interesing artifacts that give museumgoers a glimpse into life in the twentieth century. However, PAMA's greatest relic doesn't fit into a display case and it's not something that can be lableled in a few short paragraphs (though I'm going to try). PAMA's courthouse is its greatest relic. Here are three reasons why:
1. It's Gorgeous.
It's no surprise that this would be first on my list considering I've made it obvious that I have an affinity for all things old. Much like the old books in the archives at PAMA, the courthouse has an unexplainable allure. The space is finished with dark wood that makes up the spectatos' benches, the judge's seat, the jurors' chairs and the grand wall that features the court's crest. The architecture of the space is awe inspiring--everywhere you look you spot a new archway or striking crown molding. Much of the space has been preserved in its original form (designed by William Kauffman) in the twentieth century with minor upkeep making it a truly all-encompassing piece of history.
2. Civic Duty is no Joke, Dude.
The first thing you see when you walk into the Peel County Courthouse is the court crest, a symbol that proclaims justice and duty. Heavy, I know. But it's an important part of out rights as democratic citizens. Think about it like this, it is in this room that countless people before us have exercised their civic duty. Carrying on this centuries-old tradition is integral to the makeup of our justice system.
3. It Underscores the Impact of Democracy and Democratic Systems.
In light of recent political events, many of us--perhaps more so our American peers--have questioned the sanctity of democracy and the democratic system. While the courthouse is not a place where members of the public can cast a political vote, it is a manifestation of our democratic rights and liberties. People have been sentenced to lifetimes in prison in this space while others have been granted their innocence and freedom. Simply put, being inside the courhouse makes those pieces of Peel County history come alive in a way that reminds us that it takes more than a large bank account and a toupee to protect the democratic rights of millions of people.
There are hundreds of different relics that you can look at when you come visit PAMA. But the courthouse is a relic that you can walk into, sit down, and even get married in; it's true (check out the PAMA website for more details). It's a part of history that's alive and relevant in the present, allowing us to physically experience our heritage and ancestry. That's pretty awesome and we're lucky to have access to that kind of historical knowledge.
P.S. My nerdy little heart loves all of this. I hope yours does too.