Before and After Restoration
Architectural Description: The Hamilton County Courthouse, built in 1887, was typical of the Second Empire style with mansard roofs and a soaring central tower dressed up in native limestone. In 1931, however, the county hired architect E. M Mills to “repair” the building due issues of maintenance, fire safety, structural instability, and inadequate space. A bond issue was enthusiastically supported by voters as a way to put men to work in the early years of the Depression, before similar federally-sponsored programs existed. When the courthouse re-opened in 1932, the courthouse had been transformed into a modern facility, nearly double in size, with a unique eclectic appearance, carefully matching the fine masonry craftsmanship of the original.
Historical Designations: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. Designated a State Antiquites Landmark in 1992 and a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1967.
Project Description: The $6.7 million project cost to restore the courthouse to the 1932 appearance was partially-funded by three state grants totaling more than $5.9 million. Besides reviving the courthouse’s image as the town centerpiece, the project replaced all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems and provided elevator access to the upper floors for the first time. A high-efficiency geo-exchange heating and cooling system was buried underground on the courthouse square. During the interior phase, removal of modern lay-in ceilings and wall partitions revealed one of the largest district courtrooms in the state, complete with the original judge’s bench, light fixtures, and oak wainscot. A plaster bas-relief of Lady Justice was returned to the county following 40 years of absence. Lady Justice was restored and currently presides over all court proceedings from the wall behind the judge’s bench, just as she did in 1932. The courthouse was rededicated on April 28, 2012.
Fun Facts
