The Hossack Case

The Madison County Courthouse

The Madison County Courthouse in Winterset, Iowa, was designed by a French architect and situated in the exact geographical center of the county. It was constructed in 1876 of gray limestone in the shape of a Greek cross with a central dome. Inside, the woodwork was carved oak and black walnut. Margaret Hossack's second trial, in February 1903, was held in the second-floor courtroom, which resembled a small theatre with a balcony extending above the main seating area. The balcony is no longer in use, and the courtroom has been refurbished, but the building still functions as the center for county business and legal proceedings.