Douglas County Courthouse
Lawrence, KS (2010)
1100 Massachusetts Street
The Douglas County Courthouse is a three-and-a-half-story building with a limestone exterior in downtown Lawrence. Constructed in 1903, the 15,000 square-foot building exemplifies the 20th century Romanesque style. The dominant feature is the six-story-tall square clock tower. Hernly Associates was an integral part of the design team aiming to preserve the historic building.
This project included documentation of existing conditions, along with the rehabilitation of the stone masonry on the exterior. The windows were restored. Additionally, the main entrance stairs were restored and the handrail was replaced. Stairs were reconfigured to create accessibility for everyone. The attic was made accessible. Other work included gutter and downspout rehabilitation, installation of a new irrigation system, roof repairs, and concrete sidewalk replacement.
The Douglas County Courthouse has remained an important part of Lawrence and Douglas County history and continues to serve its initial purpose. It is the first and only courthouse Douglas County has ever had. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 for its architectural and political significance.
