Historic Courthouse

Tarrant County Courthouse

100 E Weatherford Street, Fort Worth, Texas

Built in 1895 in Renaissance Revival architectual style by architect Gunn & Curtiss by contractor Probst Construction Company.

The architectural firm of Gunn & Curtis designed the Tarrant County Courthouse. Construction began on the four-story Renaissance Revival structure in 1893, by the Probst Construction Company if Chicago, and was completed in 1895. It is constructed of red granite with projecting central and end pavilions. A central clock tower extends from the roof of the structure and is capped by a domed lantern. The main (south) front pavilion is decorated with paired columns, pediments and entablatures. There is a portico topped with a classically styled parapet that is supported by elongated, paired Doric columns encompassing the first two stories. On the third and fourth levels, the designer chose to use paired Ionic columns. Some crested mansard roofs are visible above the balustrade at the top of the building.

1939 - Substantial modifications made. - floors added over east and west courtrooms - construction of new interior partitions of metal studs and plaster - worn floor material replaced with asphalt tiles - acoustical ceilings installed - heating and ventilating system reworked - new plumbing installed1940's - Horse watering trough and statue removed from site.1947 - Extra floor added between existing second & third floor. - New floor blocked view of the rotunda. - Staircase altered. Western portion removed for elevator. - Window a/c units added. - Flag at top of lantern replaced by metal flag with colored bulbs.1956 - Civil Courts Annex added. -west facade altered and porch removed1959 - Metal flag removed.1979 - Roof repaired.1983 - Restored/rehabilitated. Elevator removed, stair restored.1992-94 - One courtroom renovated, copper roof skylights, some damaged windows.

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.

law courthouses buildings
The Alamo was a pivotal moment in the fight for Texas’ independence from Mexico and was the birthplace of the Texas Rangers.
Preservation Texas in Official Statement on the Alamo
Tarrant County, Texas, has a significant place in the history of the Lone Star State. The area was initially inhabited by indigenous tribes before European exploration and settlement. In the mid-19th century, the region became part of the Republic of Texas after gaining independence from Mexico.

Tarrant County was established in 1849 and named after Edward H. Tarrant, a military leader during the Texas Revolution. The county experienced significant growth and development throughout the 19th century, fueled by factors such as the expansion of railroads, cattle ranching, and the discovery of oil.

During the 20th century, Tarrant County continued to flourish and adapt to changing times. It became an important hub for transportation, commerce, and industry. The county's largest city, Fort Worth, emerged as a major center for cattle trading and eventually diversified into a vibrant economic and cultural hub.

Today, Tarrant County is one of the most populous counties in Texas, encompassing Fort Worth and several other cities and communities. It boasts a diverse economy, encompassing sectors such as aerospace, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. Tarrant County is also home to renowned educational institutions, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities, making it a dynamic and thriving region within the state.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Tarrant County, Texas.

  • Pre-19th Century: The area was inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Wichita and Comanche, before European settlement.

  • 1849: Tarrant County was officially established and named after Edward H. Tarrant, a military leader in the Republic of Texas.

  • 1850s: Fort Worth, the county seat, began as a military outpost on the Trinity River, providing protection for settlers and serving as a stop on the Chisholm Trail cattle drive route.

  • Late 19th Century: The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s spurred economic growth in Fort Worth and the county. The city became a center for the cattle industry, agriculture, and trade.

  • 20th Century: Tarrant County experienced significant urbanization and diversification. Fort Worth became a major hub for the oil and gas industry, aviation, and defense with the establishment of military bases.

  • Civil Rights Era: Tarrant County, like many regions in the United States, faced challenges and changes during the civil rights movement, with efforts to achieve racial equality and social progress.

  • Modern Times: Tarrant County continues to thrive as a major economic and cultural center in Texas. It is home to a diverse population and industries such as healthcare, finance, technology, and education.