Skip Page LinksWelcome to Washington State Courts
Courts Home> Washington Court News
 

Washington Courts: Press Release Detail

Washington Supreme Court to Host Sesquicentennial Celebration on March 2nd

February 24, 2003

On Sunday, March 2nd, the home of the Washington Supreme Court, the Temple of Justice, will be the site of a celebration commemorating the 150th anniversary of the establishment of the Washington Territory .   The celebration is sponsored by the Thurston County Commissioners, the Thurston County Historic Commission, and the Territorial Sesquicentennial Commission.

As a part of the celebration, Chief Justice Gerry Alexander and Secretary of State Sam Reed will unveil a special Territorial Supreme Court exhibit in the Supreme Court’s courtroom, beginning at 12:15 p.m.  The exhibit will highlight important cases heard by the state’s three-judge Territorial Supreme Court, which served as the trial and appellate court for the Washington Territory from 1853 until Washington became a state in 1889. 

The Sesquicentennial Celebration will run until approximately 4 p.m., including several historical informational exhibits as well as performances by the Timberline High School Choir, the Lummi Tribal Dancers, and the Centennial Elementary School Choir. 

Secretary of State Sam Reed, co-chair of the Sesquicentennial Commission will recognize Olympia, Tumwater and Thurston Counties as founding “Territorial Communities”. 

“Our Court is very pleased that the Sesquicentennial Celebration will take place in the Temple of Justice,” said Chief Justice Alexander.  “This is a wonderful opportunity for the public to learn more about the history of Thurston County, the founding of the Washington Territory, and the work of the Territorial Courts.  We welcome everyone.”

The event is free of charge to the public, with all visitors receiving a special Territorial Seal, and a slice of birthday cake.  For further information regarding the festivities, please call 360-786-5222. 

The Temple of Justice is located directly across from the State Legislative Building.  Visitors are encouraged to enter the building from the North entrance, where parking will be available.

# # # # #


Washington Courts Media Contacts:

Wendy K. Ferrell
Judicial Communications Manager
360.705.5331
e-mail Wendy.Ferrell@courts.wa.gov
Lorrie Thompson
Communications Officer
360.705.5347
Lorrie.Thompson@courts.wa.gov

 
 
Courts | Organizations | News | Opinions | Rules | Forms | Directory | Library 
Back to Top | Privacy and Disclaimer Notices