Borden number: FgRj-3. A Borden number is a unique identifier code that is assigned to an archaeological or historic site on the basis of its location.

Source: BC Heritage Branch files

Designated Site; OIC 204; 03 February 1945.

Source: BC Heritage Branch files

Richfield Courthouse is a one storey gable-roofed wood frame building situated in a remote and densely wooded area in a narrow valley along the west bank of Williams Creek. It is located approximately two kilometres south of Barkerville in the Cariboo region of British Columbia.

Source: BC Heritage Branch files

Richfield Courthouse is valued as one of the earliest manifestations of the English Common Law judicial system in British Columbia. Constructed in 1882 on the site of an earlier court building, Richfield Courthouse reflects the continued need for regulation and authority which arose in the gold-rush mining towns of the interior of British Columbia during colonial times.

Originally constructed in the once prosperous mining town of Richfield, the now remote and solitary location of this historic place - in an area where most other physical evidence of habitation lies in ruins - is a significant reminder of the transitory nature of non-native settlement and centres of government in nineteenth century British Columbia. The architectural design of the courthouse is also notable as it provides insight into the functional nature of early public works in British Columbia. Constructed as a more permanent and staid replacement to its log predecessors, the exterior form of the courthouse was designed to accommodate severe winter snowfalls, and the interior was planned to provide superior facilities for the judiciary, jury, and the legal processes of both the Supreme and County courts.

Source: BC Heritage Branch files

Source: included with note

The character-defining elements of the Richfield Courthouse include:
- the remote location within a forested environment.
- the one-storey gable-roofed form.
- the wood frame construction and exterior architectural elements attributable to its 1882 design.
- the interior layout attributable to its 1882 design.
-the relationship between the courthouse and archaeological ruins such as cabins and other remnants of early mining activities.

Source: BC Heritage Branch files