Historic Courthouses Provide a Glimpse into the Past

Touring historic Texas courthouses is an excellent way to learn about old world architecture and the celebrated pasts of the counties they reside in.

Texas has the premier collection of county courthouses in the nation, both in terms of numbers and architectural diversity. Currently there are more than 200 courthouses built before 1940 that are still standing today. These historical landmarks represent both the past and the present and are a source of pride for the communities they represent.

In 1881, Texas legislature passed a bill authorizing counties to sell bonds to finance the construction of new courthouses. In the years between 1880 and 1900 many Texas courthouses were constructed. This time frame is commonly referred to as the "Golden Era" of courthouse building. The courthouses were typically built in the center of the town square to reflect its central role in the life of the county.

Texas courthouses display some of the finest examples of 19th century and early 20th century architecture. French Second Empire and Romanesque Revival architectural styles were very prevalent during the Golden Era. North Central Texas boasts 10 counties that have courthouses dating back to this era. One such courthouse is the Somervell County Courthouse in Glen Rose.

The Somervell County Courthouse is a two-story structure featuring elements of Romanesque Revival and General Grant architectural styles. It was constructed in 1894 and was designated a Texas Historical Landmark in 1963. Additionally it earned a listing in the National Register of Historical places in 1979. As with most historical structures, time takes it toll, so in 1986 the courthouse received a complete restoration ensuring that generations to come will be able to experience the Somervell County Courthouse in the same fashion as it was originally conceived.

In a more recent effort to memorialize the Somervell County Courthouse, the Best Western Dinosaur Valley Inn and Suites (www.dinosaurvalleyinn.com) has commissioned famed western artist Stylle Read (www.stylleread.com) to paint a mural of the courthouse commemorating its legacy inside of the boutique hotel. Mr. Read has an extensive background of paintings and murals ranging from set design, exteriors, interiors and advertising art. The mural is expected to begin later this year.

Glen Rose is also centrally located between several other Golden Era courthouses. The Erath County Courthouse in Stephenville, Hood County Courthouse in Granbury and the Hill County Courthouse in Hillsboro are all just short drives away, making Glen Rose an excellent place for stay-overs.

About Glen Rose, TX
Glen Rose is located approximately 50 miles southwest of Fort Worth, Texas. It is the only city in Somervell County, which is the second smallest county in Texas. Glen Rose was voted America's Dream Town 2004 and lays claim to some of the most impressive dinosaur tracks in the country. Additionally, Glen Rose is home to the famous passion play, The Promise, and sits on the largest natural gas deposit in Texas, the Barnett Shale.