Historic Courthouse

Bandera County Courthouse Library

Bandera, Texas

Built in 1869 by architect Henry White by contractor Henry White.

Built in 1869, the two-story, coursed rubble limestone building was used as the Bandera County Courthouse from 1877 to 1891. The simple vernacular structure is covered by a gabled roof surmounted by a single end chimney. The roof, which was originally lined with cypress shingles, is now constructed of corrugated metal. The building has retained the original six-over-six sash windows in the upper floor of the east and west facades, but windows and doors have been replaced with newer models on the ground floor and second story south wall. A hooded brick flue for a stove was added to the west elevation, probably in the late 19th century. Local historians differ on the original use of the building, which is perched on a hill above the former location of an old cypress mill on the Medina River below and once belonged to the mill's owner. It is believed to have been built as a residence by one source and as a store with a Masonic lodge meeting hall on the second floor by another. The historic building currently serves as a library.

Abandoned as courthouse in 1892 upon completion of new courthouse on square. A hooded brick flue for a stove was added to the west elevation in the late 19th century. Interior remodeled in 1978-79 for use as county offices. Corrugated metal roof replaced original cypress roof.

Current status: Library

The Texas Historical Commission's (THC) nationally recognized and award-winning Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program (THCPP) has turned around the trend of disrepair and begun restoring these treasured historic landmarks. Texas has more historic courthouses than any other state. Today more than 240 courthouses still stand that are least 50 years old. About 80 were built before the turn of the 20th century. By the end of that century, most of these structures were significantly deteriorated due to inadequate maintenance, insensitive modifications or weather related damage. The Texas Historical Commission (THC) documented the condition of 50 of the state’s oldest courthouses in the late 1990s and determined that counties lacked the resources to preserve the buildings for future generations.

African American law courthouses buildings library
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
Texas random facts
Bandera County, located in Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The area was initially home to various Native American tribes, including the Lipan Apache and Comanche tribes, who resided along the banks of the Medina River. However, it was in the early 19th century that European settlers began to arrive in the region.

The first recorded settlement in Bandera County was established in 1852 by John James and Charles DeMontel. The town of Bandera was soon founded, and in 1856, Bandera County was officially created. The county was named after the nearby Bandera Pass, a mountain pass that was used by early Spanish explorers as a trail marker.

During the 19th century, Bandera County became an important center for ranching and agriculture. The fertile land and abundant water sources made it an ideal location for raising cattle and farming. The region quickly developed a reputation for its strong cowboy and ranching culture.

In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil in nearby counties brought economic prosperity to Bandera County. Numerous oil wells were drilled, and the area experienced a boom in population and development. Despite the decline of the oil industry in later years, Bandera County continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination, known for its historic downtown, natural beauty, and western heritage.

Today, Bandera County remains a charming rural community that celebrates its rich history and maintains its Western traditions. Visitors can explore the numerous historic sites, museums, and cowboy-themed events, immersing themselves in the county's unique culture and heritage.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Bandera County, Texas.

  • 1856 - Bandera County is created from parts of Bexar, Uvalde, Medina, and Kerr counties.
  • Late 1850s - Settlers begin to establish homesteads and ranches in the area.
  • 1870 - The first courthouse is built in Bandera, the county seat.
  • Late 1870s - The population booms due to the expansion of the cattle industry.
  • 1891 - The Bandera County Courier newspaper is founded.
  • 1933 - The Bandera Electric Cooperative is formed to bring electricity to rural areas.
  • 1940s - Ranching and farming become the primary economic activities in the county.
  • 1975 - Bandera becomes the "Cowboy Capital of the World" and hosts the first Cowboy Capital Rodeo.
  • 2002 - The Bandera County Library is opened.