On Tuesday, July 17, 2012, the Supreme Court of Ohio launched an expanded news program – Court News Ohio – that features stories about the Ohio judicial system. This archived page on the Supreme Court’s website only displays news stories that occurred before that date. News stories that occurred on July 17 and thereafter can be found at www.courtnewsohio.gov.

June 21, 2012
Courtroom Features Mural of Interest for War of 1812 Bicentennial

Rudolf Scheffler's mural depicts Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s victory over the British on Lake Erie in 1813, which ensured American control of the Great Lakes. Several sites around Ohio on Monday commemorated the bicentennial of the start of the War of 1812. History buffs should note that a mural in the Thomas J. Moyer Ohio Judicial Center depicts a pivotal scene from this conflict.

In the first floor courtroom where the Ohio Supreme Court hears cases, there are 15 murals around the perimeter of the room just beneath the ceiling. Each illustrates significant milestones in Ohio history.

One of those murals features Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s victory over the British on Lake Erie in 1813, which ensured American control of the Great Lakes. Commodore Perry is standing in a row boat holding the battle flag of the USS Lawrence over his left shoulder. The inscription reads: “DON’T GIVE UP THE SHIP.”

Rudolph Scheffler (1884-1973) painted the murals in the courtroom.

To schedule a tour to view this mural or others in the courtroom, please call the Visitor Education Center at 614.387.9223 or e-mail courttours@sc.ohio.gov.