The county held a Christmas potluck in the hallway of the old courthouse Friday. About 200 employees and visitors enjoyed food and socializing.

A 16-foot tall tree stood in the stairwell decorated with lights and balls. And large wreaths, also illuminated, were on the walls surrounding the food table.

Most of interior decorations on the first floor are preserved as they were installed in 1888. The hallway was once used for various ceremonies including the Christmas potluck, but the tradition was discontinued about two decades ago.

Courthouse Custodial Supervisor Gloria Hall proposed to revive the tradition three years ago, and make the gathering open to the public. Hall, 18-year veteran employee said, “I thought this building should be used for the purpose what it was designed.”

The 88 building will be remodeled as a part of new courthouse project. University of Minnesota Extension Office will be moving into the first floor and the Highway Department will go out to the expanded maintenance shop. But, the change to the interior is minimum, and the hallway will maintain the historic dignity, according to Hall.