OSCEOLA COUNTY COURTHOUSE

By  Mike Miller November 23. 2025

Osceola County Courthouse in Kissimmee, Florida was built in 1890. It's notable for being the oldest courthouse in Florida still in continuous use for its original purpose.

The building was designed in the Romanesque Revival style. It was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1977. It is still a working courthouse as of today.

The Courthouse was built during a period of growth and development on land carved out of Brevard and Orange countries to make Osceola County.

It was completed on May 6, 1890, at a cost of around $25,000. The building was designed by local architect F.C. Johnson in the Romanesque Revival style.

This architectural style was popular in the late 19th century. It’s characterized by robust features such as rounded arches and strong masonry.

The courthouse is constructed of load-bearing brick laid in a common bond pattern. It’s in a three-story T-shape with an attached portico.

The bricks support the weight of the building and aren’t just for show. It was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on August 16, 1977.

It was recognized primarily because it is the oldest courthouse in Florida in continuous use for judicial purposes since its completion.

Special events held in the courthouse include themed group weddings, with unique celebrations like Halloween group weddings. That’s where multiple couples get married in a festive, communal setting officiated by local officials.

Over the years there have been numerous reports and stories from visitors, courthouse staff, and locals about paranormal activity within the building.

Common ghostly phenomena reported are unexplained footsteps, mysterious voices, flickering lights, and objects moving on their own. Some people have claimed to see apparitions or shadowy figures, especially in the older parts of the courthouse. 

Several ghost tours in downtown Kissimmee feature the courthouse as a site of paranormal interest, where visitors can explore its history and reportedly encounter spirits.

Osceola County Courthouse is at 2 Courthouse Square, Kissimmee, FL 34741. It’s open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm (excluding holidays).

Visitors can admire the building’s exterior architecture and its historical significance at any time. Inside, it’s a working courthouse, so be mindful of court schedules and security protocols.

Check their website for official hours and any visitor guidelines. For ghostly excursions, try Main Street Ghost Tours.

OSCEOLA COUNTY COURTHOUSE WEBSITE

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