Denton County Courthouse
Denton, TexasBuilt in 1896 in Romanesque Revival with Second Empire influences architectual style by architect W.C. Dodson by contractor Tom Lovell.
Designed by W. C. Dodson in 1896, the Denton County Courthouse features a version of the traditional cross-axial plan which is modified to provide support for a high, central masonry tower. Within the three-story structure, the large central spaces, including the courtroom, are located on either side of a single main corridor. This arrangement allows the supporting walls for the tower to pass through the center of the structure. A corridor running east-west provides the main circulation space. On either end is a large stair, prefabricated from cast iron components. As is typical of Texas courthouses, offices of the county clerk, tax assessor, and tax collector are located on the ground floor, while the large district courtroom and offices of the district clerk and judge's chambers are situated on the second floor. The third floor contains additional offices. The masonry on the exterior of the building displays an attractive combination of colors. The walls are made of tan, quarry-faced sandstone in an ashlar pattern, and the column capitals are of red sandstone carved in a basket weave motif. The voussoirs, water table, stringcourses and lintels are of cut sandstone in a light brown color. The column shafts are of pink granite. The columns, eighty in number, were fabricated in Fort Worth and were among the first to be finished with electric equipment. They are used in the pedimented entry pavilions at each facade and in balcony features at each corner. Each facade consists of a five-part composition with a projecting pavilion emphasizing the entrance. Each entrance pavilion is enriched by a Roman-arched opening, two ranges of columns and a triangular pediment. At each corner is a series of balconies surmounted by a tower. Openings are spanned with stone lintels throughout, except at the entrances and the corner towers. The tower openings are spanned by Roman arches. Each entrance is emphasized by a Roman arch flanked by rectangular openings resulting in a composition of voids recalling the Palladian motif. Above the entrance, columns bearing on pedestals support balconies with stone rails. The dominant feature of the composition is the central octagonal tower, which rises above a broad platform with four ancillary domes. There is an observation platform in the tower's base, and above this platform is a cornice supported by two columns that rise from a masonry railing. Additional embellishments include stone carvings which decorate the cornice, a balustrade which surmounts the cornice, and carved stone details which enhance the posts of this balustrade. There is also a bull's-eye window accenting each pediment. The courthouse underwent substantial restoration in 1987.
-Major renovation in 1987. - The first, second, and third floor windows have been replaced with aluminum mill finish sash.
Current status: Active Courthouse
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.
The discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
Denton County was officially established in 1846 and named after John B. Denton, a prominent figure in Texas history. The county played a significant role in the early days of Texas statehood and witnessed the challenges and triumphs of westward expansion.
Throughout the 19th century, Denton County thrived due to the expansion of railroads and the arrival of new settlers. Agriculture, particularly the production of cotton, became a key economic driver. Educational institutions, such as the University of North Texas and Texas Woman's University, were founded in Denton County during this period, establishing a legacy of academic excellence.
In the 20th century, Denton County continued to evolve. The discovery of oil in the area brought new economic opportunities, and the county experienced further growth and urbanization. Today, Denton County is a dynamic and thriving region with a diverse economy that includes sectors such as education, healthcare, technology, and manufacturing.
Denton County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Denton County, Texas.
Native American Inhabitation: Before European settlement, Denton County was home to various Native American tribes, including the Wichita and Tonkawa.
Anglo-American Settlement: In the mid-1800s, Anglo-American settlers began to arrive, drawn by the fertile land and prospects for farming and ranching. The Peters Colony, a land grant company, played a significant role in attracting these settlers.
County Formation: Denton County was officially established in 1846, named after John B. Denton, a prominent preacher and soldier who died during the Texas Revolution.
Growth and Development: The county's growth accelerated with the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s, leading to the establishment of towns such as Denton, Lewisville, and Frisco. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, became a key economic driver in the region.
Education: Denton County became an educational hub with the founding of the University of North Texas (formerly known as North Texas Normal College) in 1890. The university has since grown into a major educational institution.
Modernization and Urbanization: In the 20th century, Denton County experienced suburban growth and industrial development, especially with the expansion of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The county's population has steadily increased, and it is now one of the fastest-growing counties in Texas.