It took more than a decade and gave more than one county official gray hair, but today, in front of more than 200 guests, Rains County re-dedicated the county's historic courthouse.

Nearly three hours before the first speech was offered, the courthouse was surrounded with folks dressed in early 20th-century garb. Some talked of yesterday, others played dominoes, still others marveled at the renovation.

Kay House, Emory's Mayor and descendent of the man for which both the county and the city are named, strolled about the second-floor courtroom, telling stories of the building's past and, often how her family was a part of it.

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As 1 p.m. approached, guests gathered in front of the building. U.S. Congressman Ralph Hall, Texas Senator Bob Duell, and officials from the Texas Historical Commission were all a part of the day's ceremony. Current County Judge Joe Dougherty said he, for one, was more than pleased that the renovation was finally at an end.

The courthouse will now be used for regular county business as well as house the offices of the County Judge and the District Courts.