Historic Courthouses in
Harris County, Texas

Harris County Courthouse (Built: 1952 in Houston, TX)
existing
Harris County Courthouse (Built: 1910 in Houston, TX)
Active Courthouse
Harris County Courthouse (Built: 1884 in Houston, TX)
demolished
Harris County Courthouse (Built: 1860 in Houston, TX)
gone/modified 1870
Harris County Courthouse (Built: 1851 in Houston, TX)
demolished
Harris County Courthouse (Built: 1838 in Houston, TX)
gone
Harris County Criminal Courthouse (Built: 1930 ca. in Houston, TX)
not built?
Harrison County Courthouse (Built: 1964 in Marshall, TX)
existing
Harrison County Courthouse (Built: 1900 in Marshall, TX)
museum
Harrison County Courthouse (Built: 1889 in Marshall, TX)
gone/burned 1899
Harrison County Courthouse (Built: 1850 in Marshall, TX)
gone
Harrison County Courthouse (Built: 1839 in Marshall, TX)
Harrison County Courthouse Museum (Built: 1899c. in Marshall, TX)
Museum
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The Ninety Prettiest County Courthouses in Texas...and the Ten Ugliest Hardcover – June 30, 2023
The Ninety Prettiest County Courthouses in Texas...and the Ten Ugliest

Texas is a country in its own right.
Yanis Varoufakis in The Guardian
Harris County in Texas has a significant history that shaped its growth and importance. Established in 1837, the county was named after John Richardson Harris, founder of the first settlement, Harrisburg. Houston, the county seat, became a prominent commercial and shipping center due to its strategic location and railroads.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, Harris County experienced rapid economic diversification and growth. The discovery of oil in the Spindletop field fueled Houston's emergence as an energy and petrochemical hub. Industries like cotton, lumber, shipping, and manufacturing thrived. NASA's Johnson Space Center further solidified the county's significance in space exploration and technology.

Harris County's demographic diversity is a defining aspect, attracting immigrants from various backgrounds. Houston became a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant culinary scene, dynamic arts community, and diverse festivals, reflecting its multicultural fabric.

Today, Harris County remains an influential economic and cultural center. Its strong economy spans energy, healthcare, technology, and international trade. The county houses renowned medical facilities and research institutions. Despite facing natural disasters, Harris County showcases resilience and implements measures to mitigate their impact.

With its rich history, economic vitality, multiculturalism, and ongoing growth, Harris County continues to shape Texas as a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and innovation.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Harris County, Texas.

  • Pre-19th Century: The region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Atakapa.

  • 1822: Harrisburg, the county's first settlement, is founded by John Richardson Harris, a pioneer and one of the early Texas colonists.

  • 1836: The Battle of San Jacinto, which secured Texas independence from Mexico, took place in present-day Harris County.

  • 1837: Harris County is officially established and named after John Richardson Harris.

  • 19th Century: Houston, the county seat and the largest city in Texas, experiences rapid growth due to its strategic location along Buffalo Bayou and the construction of railroads. The city becomes a major commercial and shipping hub, attracting industries such as cotton, lumber, and oil.

  • 20th Century: The discovery of oil in the nearby Spindletop field and the subsequent growth of the oil industry greatly contribute to Harris County's economic development. Houston becomes an energy and petrochemical center.

  • 1960s-1980s: The space industry plays a crucial role in Harris County's history with the establishment of NASA's Johnson Space Center, where mission control for the Apollo program is located.

  • Today: Harris County continues to be a thriving economic and cultural center. It is home to a diverse population, numerous industries, world-class medical facilities, and renowned cultural institutions.