Courtroom packed for unveiling of restoration

The Big Horn County district courtroom was packed Nov. 18 for an open house event celebrating its historic restoration. Opening remarks were made by Judge Bobbi Overfield who also emceed the event, introducing guests and speakers. 

 Distinguished guests included Wyoming Supreme Court Chief Justice Lynne J. Boomgaarden, retired Judge Robert Skar, retired Judge Hunter Patrick, Judge Ed Luhm and Judge Bill Simpson. Simpson appeared via Zoom and shared stories of historical trials held in the courtroom. 

Boomgaarden remarked after the open house, “The courtroom restoration beautifully reflects Big Horn County’s rich history.  This project is the perfect example of how a community can benefit when its leaders and court staff invest their time, talent, and treasure toward a common goal.  The courtroom and magnificent mural reflect such pride in the Wyoming justice system, where everyone, regardless of politics or position, can bring their disputes for timely and fair resolution. I was honored to be able to celebrate this impressive accomplishment with the people of Big Horn County.”

Deputy County Attorney (and history buff) Jennifer Kirk presented a history of the courthouse. Artists Deanna Skillman and Rebecca Kinane shared the story of the mural. They signed the mural during the open house.  Deany Delaney, who was the designer, and Bill Cushing, who restored the ceiling, also spoke. 

Skar handled questions from those in attendance and was able to get District Court Clerk Serena Lipp to answer.  Lipp was the one who had the dream to restore the court room to its former glory. 

All Big Horn County commissioners were in attendance as were County Attorney Marcia Bean, County Clerk Lori Smallwood, Treasurer Nicole Vigil, Assessor Gina Anderson, Maintenance Supervisor Jeremy Pouska, many courthouse staff and members of the public. 

Commissioner Chair Deb Craft said the project never would have happened if it weren’t for Lipp and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). “Serena had the vision and the dream. The funding was only possible because of ARPA. The county could not have afforded to do the project otherwise.” 

Craft added that she hopes people will come see the room and the beautiful mural. Photos don’t catch the true beauty and grandeur. Craft had high praise for Delaney, Skillman, Kinane, and Cushing for their work and dedication for this project.  

BY BARBARA ANNE GREENE 

The Big Horn County district courtroom was packed Nov. 18 for an open house event celebrating its historic restoration. Opening remarks were made by Judge Bobbi Overfield who also emceed the event, introducing guests and speakers. 

 Distinguished guests included Wyoming Supreme Court Chief Justice Lynne J. Boomgaarden, retired Judge Robert Skar, retired Judge Hunter Patrick, Judge Ed Luhm and Judge Bill Simpson. Simpson appeared via Zoom and shared stories of historical trials held in the courtroom. 

Boomgaarden remarked after the open house, “The courtroom restoration beautifully reflects Big Horn County’s rich history.  This project is the perfect example of how a community can benefit when its leaders and court staff invest their time, talent, and treasure toward a common goal.  The courtroom and magnificent mural reflect such pride in the Wyoming justice system, where everyone, regardless of politics or position, can bring their disputes for timely and fair resolution. I was honored to be able to celebrate this impressive accomplishment with the people of Big Horn County.”

Deputy County Attorney (and history buff) Jennifer Kirk presented a history of the courthouse. Artists Deanna Skillman and Rebecca Kinane shared the story of the mural. They signed the mural during the open house.  Deany Delaney, who was the designer, and Bill Cushing, who restored the ceiling, also spoke. 

Skar handled questions from those in attendance and was able to get District Court Clerk Serena Lipp to answer.  Lipp was the one who had the dream to restore the court room to its former glory. 

All Big Horn County commissioners were in attendance as were County Attorney Marcia Bean, County Clerk Lori Smallwood, Treasurer Nicole Vigil, Assessor Gina Anderson, Maintenance Supervisor Jeremy Pouska, many courthouse staff and members of the public. 

Commissioner Chair Deb Craft said the project never would have happened if it weren’t for Lipp and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). “Serena had the vision and the dream. The funding was only possible because of ARPA. The county could not have afforded to do the project otherwise.” 

Craft added that she hopes people will come see the room and the beautiful mural. Photos don’t catch the true beauty and grandeur. Craft had high praise for Delaney, Skillman, Kinane, and Cushing for their work and dedication for this project.