Washington County Courthouse - Brenham, Texas
Posted by: 
Raven
N 30° 10.022 W 096° 23.863
14R E 750605 N 3340155
Built in 1939-40, the white limestone clad Washington County courthouse in downtown Brenham, Texas is a typical example of the WPA (Works Progress Administration) funded Art Deco-style courthouses in the state.
Waymark Code: WMNM3T
Location: Texas, United States
Date Posted: 04/01/2015
Views: 7
As described by the
Texas Historical Commission's Atlas website:
"Constructed in the traditions of the Art Deco style, the Washington County Courthouse combines a smooth limestone veneer with rhythmical metal-sash windows and stylized detailing. The 3 1/2-story structure is composed of geometric building blocks which are arranged symmetrically around a central mass. The courthouse is prominently located in the center of Brenham on the historic courthouse square. [...]
With its smooth limestone veneer and stylized geometrical detailing, the Washington County Courthouse exhibits features associated with the late Art Deco period. Tension between the vertical thrust of window shafts and horizontal massing marks the symmetrical classically inspired composition. Detailing includes stylized eagles, decorative light standards, incised geometric reliefs, and metal-sash windows with dark marble spandrels.
Centrally sited in its square, the courthouse exhibits austere axial facades. The principal (north and south) facades consist of symmetrically stepped rectangular blocks with flat roofs. Symmetrically arranged 2- and 3-story blocks front the central 3 1/2-story block. Centered on each elevation, 5-bay entry blocks project slightly. Double door entries are characterized by large transoms, geometric metal detailing, and dark marble surrounds. Entry stairs feature low stone walls with decorative light standards. Vertical emphasis is leant to the composition by bays of metal-sash windows linked with dark marble spandrels. Incised linear motifs visually continue lines of the windows to the parapets, where denticulated banding alludes to classical detailing. Centered above entries, stylized clocks appear below this incised banding. Two-story blocks with voluted corners flank each entry block and provide visual transition with the side elevations.
The side (east and west) elevations are characterized by similar treatment. Narrower than those on the principal facades, projecting entry blocks rise four stories and contain only three ribbon window components. Access is gained via the basement level, with the visual focus provided by dark marble entry surrounds surmounted by metal eagles. Detailing corresponds to that on the principal facades. [...]
This building was built with Works Progress Administration assistance in 1939 under the direction of C.L. Browning, Jr., as contractor. Travis Broesche of Henrick and Lindsley, Inc., served as architect.
This property is one of the few buildings in Brenham designed in the Art Deco style. It retains its architectural integrity and is a good example of the style."