Bexar County Courthouse, San Antonio

The Bexar County Courthouse, located in downtown San Antonio, is a celebrated historic building and a prominent example of Romanesque Revival architecture. Designed by renowned architect James Riely Gordon, the courthouse is constructed primarily from red sandstone, giving it a distinctive appearance that complements the architectural charm of its neighbor, the Cathedral of San Fernando, on Main Plaza. Groundbreaking for the courthouse began on August 4, 1891, with its cornerstone laid on December 17, 1892. Despite delays, the building was fully completed in 1896. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.

James Riely Gordon, a Winchester, Virginia native who moved to San Antonio at age 11, was the visionary behind this structure. Winning a design competition in 1891, Gordon crafted a courthouse that stands as the largest and oldest continuously operating courthouse in Texas. His expertise in courthouse architecture is evident in his portfolio, which includes 18 courthouses, 12 of which remain, primarily in Texas.

The Romanesque Revival style is showcased through the courthouse's imposing arched entrance, robust red sandstone exterior, and intricate detailing. The four-story building reflects a time when nearly every Texas town constructed a courthouse during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Over its long history, the courthouse has undergone several expansions to accommodate San Antonio's growing population. A restoration project completed in 2015 sought to return the courthouse closer to its original design. The restoration not only preserved the historic integrity of the structure but also modernized it for continued use as the county seat of Bexar County.

Having witnessed over a century of political and social changes, the Bexar County Courthouse remains a vital part of San Antonio's heritage.