Protecting the Future, Celebrating the Past

Often, the existing materials in a historic building are superior to their modern replacements. That is NOT the case with the electrical systems at Woodstock, Illinois’s treasured Old Courthouse, Sheriff’s House & Jail, a focal point of the beautiful Woodstock Square.

Benson Electrical Contracting is proud to have been awarded the contract for giving this grand lady and her neighboring building, a much-needed facelift. Both are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and for the first time in nearly a half-century, are going through a major renovation. We applaud the City of Woodstock for its commitment to preserving the heritage of their community by protecting these 19th-Century structures.

The Benson crews have painstakingly removed worn and weathered electrical wiring. A fascinating process that took several weeks. Why fascinating? It gave us a glimpse into the building’s vibrant past. As one can imagine, a variety of wiring had been installed throughout the years and although not all of these wires were operational, some actually included remnants of the original electrical wiring used when the buildings were originally constructed.

Now that the demolition of various walls and removal of old electrical systems has taken place, the focus is placed on planning the layout of the electrical systems required to bring power back safely and efficiently into the buildings. This methodical process includes regular meetings with other skilled contractors working on the project.

The Old Courthouse itself is an Italianate structure built out of brick with limestone trim and a brick basement. It’s solid, with each wall removed holding plenty of surprises. Throughout the years its played host to courtroom hearings, famous inmates such as presidential candidate, Eugene V. Debbs, popular restaurants, art galleries and event events such as a special cast and crew kickoff party prior to the filming of Groundhog Day.

This project is slated for completion in 2023, and there is much to be accomplished by then. Benson Electrical contracting will take you along on this journey as the months go by.

Building: Historic Courthouse
Clients: City of Woodstock
General Contractor: Bulley & Andrews
Services: Demolition and Renovation
Size: 36,000square feet
Location: Woodstock, Illinois