One year ago, crews fought to contain the fire that consumed the Hancock County Courthouse.
To many in Hancock County, it's more than just a building.
So much so, that some people called it "Her Majesty".
"It's a big deal, it's the only thing we had," said long time resident, Gene Clayton.
But last August, the royal landmark went up in flames.
"You get a call at three in the morning that your courthouse is on fire," said Sistie Hudson, the chairperson of the Hancock County Board of Commissioners, "It was huge."
Documents, equipment, and old records were destroyed.
The building, which was built in 1881, was burned to the ground, with only parts of the brick exterior remaining.
Construction on the new building started in January, and is expected to be finished next April.
"We had the courthouse that long, and then for this to happen, it was terrible," said Crayton Robert.
He has lived in Sparta for 75 years and says seeing the reconstruction has helped renew the community's spirit.
Hudson says the new courthouse will have energy efficient windows, and will be handicap accessible.
She says it's exciting to see all the pieces come together.
"All the things going on inside were really shielded from the public with the green curtain," Hudson said, "But now, that you see the steel top down with the flag, it's getting pretty awesome now."
Meaning "Her Majesty" Will be making her regal appearance again soon.
Hancock County's development authority says the re-construction is covered by insurance at a cost of about $6.6 million.
