While watching the ongoing renovation/restoration process the Lassen County Courthouse, I thought I would share a bit of trivia, about the first courthouse, located on the same site. In February 1867, William R. Williams was awarded a contract, per specifications, of a courthouse at a cost of $9,850. It was accepted as completed on October 28, 1867. Not many people are aware, there is a small stream named for him—Williams Creek that flows into the Susan River at Devils Corral.
It should be noted prior to the construction of the courthouse the county rented several places to conduct county business. The courtroom and board of supervisors meetings were held in the Magnolia Saloon building, current site of the St. Francis Hotel.