Historic Courthouse

Bandera County Courthouse

12th and Maple, Bandera, Texas

Built in 1890 in Renaissance Revival architectual style by architect B.F. Trester, Jr. by contractor Ed Braden & Sons, San Antonio and E. Huffmeyer, Bandera.

The Renaissance Revival-style Bandera County Courthouse, built in 1890 by Ed Braden and Sons, was designed by B. F. Trester, Jr. The masonry is primarily rusticated limestone, complimented by a smooth-cut limestone water table, belt course, lintels and fluted pilasters, and was quarried locally. The north and south facades each consist of a three-story central pavilion flanked by two-story wings. The central portico is supported by paired classical columns and crowned by a balcony with a stone balustrade. The second and third floors, which are less rusticated than the ground floor, feature courses of quarry-faced ashlar of varying sizes accented by dressed stone pilasters with channeling. The pilasters rest upon a belt course dividing the first and second floors. The eaves are bracketed on the east and west wings, with a dentil cornice on the two-story wings of the north and south facades. The east and west facades are less prominent. The hipped and domed roofs are covered with standing seam metal and feature four stone chimneys. In 1938, a one-story, block building was built on the public square to the north (rear) of the courthouse. In 1961, a one-story stone office addition was built onto the east side of the courthouse disturbing the continuity of that facade. The clock has been removed from the tower and the clock faces painted over. Additional alterations to the structure consist of aluminum window replacements in 1961 and interior renovation that has hidden some of the building's historic character.

Remodeled in 1961 with a one story addition to the east aluminum window replacement, and interior modernization; -1979-1980 repairs to roof and dome made-Elevator and handicap ramp (ADA)

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.

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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 glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history 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.