I grew up in Cassopolis, attended CHS and my children started to school there until we moved to California in 1963.

As a member of the URSCC, I have been kept in touch with the discussions on the courthouse and I can tell you that I cannot understand a person who would not want to save this piece of history with such beautiful architecture.

During the war, names of Cass County Service men were posted on a large board across the courthouse lawn.  I worked for Glenn Squiers when he was prosecuting attorney and later for Attorney Jerry O’Connor so had many occasions to go to the courthouse to probate to see Judge Probst, to Justice of the Peace Adam Greenwalt and also to the clerk’s office.

I remember also going to the school office to make copies since everyone didn’t have copy machines then.  Also before there was a library, we went to an office in the courthouse to check out  books.  And last, but certainly not least, it was the only public restroom in Cassopolis.

I cried many tears when CHS was torn down.  Where my sons went to high school in Claremont, California, they converted the high school into shops which were very successful.

The courthouse could be offices, shops and there must be many uses for this gorgeous old building.  Do not tear down yet another piece of history.

Irene Kratzer

Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California