The Good Old Days: Freedom Magazine Presents The History of Clearwater, Florida Part IV

Pinellas County officials launched a brand-new government in rented offices in downtown Clearwater on January 1, 1912. Clearwater was well represented among the officials of the first county government. S.S. Coachman served as a commissioner, A.C. Turner as treasurer and William A. Hart as a justice of the peace.

Controversy raged over whether Clearwater or St. Petersburg would serve as the county seat. With upper counter commissioners holding three of the five seats, Clearwater was ultimately selected.

The site of the first courthouse is currently occupied by Peace Memorial Church. The two-story courthouse was contracted to be built within 30 days for $3,750. A rumor circulated that St. Petersburg residents, unhappy with the choice of Clearwater as the county seat, planned to burn the structure down in protest.

Able-bodied volunteers were organized to work day and night to complete the courthouse swiftly. Women supported the workers with food and drink to keep them going, while shotgun-toting guards were posted around the clock until the structure was finished.