About the Sharp County Courthouse

The Sharp County Courthouse serves as the central hub of county government for Sharp County.

Built between 1966–1967, this modern, one-story brick and concrete facility was designed by the architectural firm Stuck, Frier, Lane & Scott, Inc. of Jonesboro, and constructed by Charles Lovell Contractor of Searcy.

A History of Growth and Change

Sharp County has a rich history of shifting county seats and courthouses. The county was formed in 1868, named after Ephraim Sharp, a local pioneer and legislator.

Its first courthouse was built in Evening Shade in 1870, but it burned in 1879.

In response to geographic and political divisions, a second county seat was established in Hardy in 1894.

The Hardy courthouse—a stately two-story stone building—served the northern district of the county for decades.

After a fire in 1974 damaged the upper floors of the Hardy courthouse, the building was repurposed and adapted for commercial use.

In 1967, county governance consolidated in Ash Flat, leading to the construction of the current courthouse.

Courthouse Today

Today, the Sharp County Courthouse houses vital offices, including the Circuit Court (3rd Judicial Circuit) and District Court, along with various administrative departments.

In recent years, the courthouse has been updated to better serve the public:

A public kiosk now allows residents to access court forms, legal aid resources, and court records.
Improvements to the building continue, including a parking lot expansion (2024) and efforts to upgrade climate control to reduce humidity.

Why It Matters

The courthouse isn’t just a building — it’s a symbol of Sharp County’s civic life and evolution. From the early days in Evening Shade and Hardy to its modern role in Ash Flat, the courthouse has been central to law, governance, and community. Its continuous adaptation shows Sharp County’s commitment to serving its citizens with accessibility, transparency, and dignity.

Location & Hours
Sharp County Courthouse
315 W. Main St.
Walnut Ridge, AR 72476
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Main Phone Line: (870) 886-1110