The Emporia Gazette

May 28, 2012

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COTTONWOOD FALLS — A long-awaited moment for Chase County will come on Saturday, as the Chase County Courthouse will officially re-open after a long period of time being closed for a complete remodel and restoration.

The public will get its first peek at the newly remodeled courthouse Saturday afternoon in a series of festivities. The courthouse was completed in 1873. Also celebrating it’s re-opening is longtime Chase County business Jim Bell and Son, in downtown Cottonwood Falls.

The Chase County Courthouse re-opening celebration will start at 2:55 p.m. Saturday with the ringing of the bell. This will be followed by the Color Guard and Star Spangled Banner at 3 p.m. A welcome and introductions will be conducted from 3:05 to 3:10 p.m. followed by the ribbon cutting and cannon firing by re-enactors. Open house and presentations will be in the court room at 3:30 p.m. with closing ceremonies starting at 6 p.m.

Jim Bell and Son, 322 Broadway in Cottonwood Falls, will hold its grand re-opening Friday through Sunday. The store, which originally opened in 1927, is open under new owners. The store has been returned to its roots — providing authentic western ranch and work wear and fashion for the entire family, a press release stated.

Events planned for Saturday in front of Jim Bell include registration to win a grand prize, all-expense paid weekend get-a-way to the National Ranch Rodeo World finals in Amarillo, Texas, on Nov. 14 and 15; drawing of K-State football tickets; trick rope competition; historical re-enactors from CHAPS will put on displays in the street; live radio remote broadcast from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

On Sunday, Hat Man Jack will be available from noon to 4 p.m.