The jewel of the city of Denton, TX is the Denton County Courthouse. Located on the highest elevation within the town limits, the courthouse is a building with both historical and architectural significance. In 1978 most of the county government offices were moved out of the courthouse, and the historical museum moved into the ground floor. The building was declared a historical landmark in 1982. Here are three reasons to plan your visit to the number one rated attraction in Denton County.
1. Commanding, Yet Elegant
This monumental building is one of the few remaining original late-1800s courthouses in Texas. Construction of the imposing structure was finished in 1896 and served as the seat of government for 81 years. Designed by Waco-based W.C. Dodson, the unique mix of construction materials resulted in a grand but ominous building. The courthouse is one of the most photographed buildings in Texas.
Much of the distinctive look came from a diverse layering of masonry. The exterior includes 82 pink granite columns, topped with red stone sourced from a nearby quarry. The three-story building was one of the first brick buildings built in Denton.
2. An Assemblage of History
There are many different artifact collections in the museum, including American Pressed Blue Glass; Dolls; Indian Pottery; Denton County Pottery; Denton County Photographs; Weaponry; Denton County Memorabilia; early 1900s Toys; Pecan Art Figurines; and Pecan Folk ArtThimbles and Sewing Collectibles. You will also find Denton County’s research material and cemetery records.
The museum houses many exhibits related to early settlers of Denton including Historic Hispanic and African families. You can learn the history of the people who contributed to the county’s rich heritage. There are both permanent and traveling exhibits in the museum. The displays are rotated regularly, and there is always something new to see.
The square at the courthouse has had significance throughout history. One notable visit was from Dwight Eisenhower, who campaigned for the presidency from a platform in the square in 1952. Today there are regular concerts and events held in the square. The courthouse square is said to be the heart of downtown, with everything in Denton revolving around it.
Like all Denton museums, admission is free every day. You can stroll the grounds and enjoy the lush lawns. The museum hosts a monthly lecture series that is open to the public and free to attend. They are closed on Sundays and most holidays, but you can still roam the grounds and admire the majestic building.
After you visit the courthouse, wander the surrounding area. You will find an eclectic and interesting mix of shops as well as the historic Campus Theatre. The courthouse is steeped in history. The museum is a repository of multiple unique collections that each tell a piece of the story of Denton County.
3. A Free Family Outing
Like all Denton museums, admission is free every day. You can stroll the grounds and enjoy the lush lawns. The museum hosts a monthly lecture series that is open to the public and free to attend. They are closed on Sundays and most holidays, but you can still roam the grounds and admire the majestic building.
After you visit the courthouse, wander the surrounding area. You will find an eclectic and interesting mix of shops as well as the historic Campus Theatre. The courthouse is steeped in history. The museum is a repository of multiple unique collections that each tell a piece of the story of Denton County.
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