The Old Red Courthouse in downtown Dallas is a fine example of the courthouse-building fervor that swept through Texas in the 1880s and 1890s. In an imposing Romanesque style with turrets and gargoyles (actually wyverns), the courthouse dominates the area near Dealey Plaza, even though it is not as tall as many of the surrounding buildings.
The Building:
Built in 1890, Old Red (as it is affectionately called) was made of huge blocks of gray granite and red sandstone from Arkansas and Pecos, Texas. The red mortar provides a striking contrast between the blocks of gray granite. Iron and brick interior walls were chosen with fireproofing in mind--since previous courthouses had burned to the ground.
The window frames are made of "tank cypress" which is wood from old brewery tanks. The windows in the turrets are curved along with the building and some of those windows have stained glass over them, also curved with the lines of the turrets.
The Museum:
The restoration of the Old Red Courthouse began in 2001 and finished in 2007. The historic downtown courthouse is now open to the public as a museum showcasing the history of Dallas.
Location:
100 S. Houston Street in downtown Dallas
Getting There:
The easiest way to get there is to take DART's light rail--either the Red line or Blue line--to Union Station or the West End station.
Finding a parking space can be difficult on a weekday in downtown Dallas, but not impossible. To drive there, take I-35 to the Commerce Street exit going east. Take a left on Market Street, a left on Elm Street, and a left on Houston Street.
Phone:
(214)745-1100
To rent space for business meetings or private receptions, call (214)886-1644