Barton County was established February 26, 1867, and was
named for Clara Harlowe Barton. Barton helped to provide medical supplies
to soldiers during the Civil War and founded the American Red Cross in 1881.
The first courthouse was built in 1873. It was made of
brick and the corners were made of cut stone. In 1918 a new courthouse was
needed. The new classical style building was built of white stone blocks and
trimmed marble. The building boasts arched upper windows and six ionic columns
on each side of the building. In 1952 the steps were removed and two
ground floor entrances were made.
According to records, the first marriage in the county
was performed on November 28, 1872. The first baby was born October 2,
1871. The first death occurred in January of 1872. The first court
session was held in April of 1873. Built in 1873, School District No. 1
was the first public school in Barton County.