Colorado County Courthouse, Columbus, Texas
historic place
The Colorado County Courthouse in Columbus, Texas, is a historic place. It was erected between 1889 and 1891. Prominent Texas architect Eugene T. Heiner designed the building. The cornerstone was laid in a public ceremony on July 7, 1890. Contractors Martin, Byrne, and Johnson built the structure using brick and Belton stone. Originally, the courthouse featured a central bell tower. However, in 1909, a tornado severely damaged the building, destroying its original tower and much of the roof. During subsequent repairs, a copper dome replaced the original tower, and an interior stained glass dome was added to the district courtroom. This classic revival building is now one of the oldest existing courthouses in Texas. It was designated a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1969 and continues to serve Colorado County.