Entry 58: The Old Red Courthouse: A Monument to Dallas History

The first courthouse—a modest log structure built in 1846—marked Dallas’ rise as the county seat by 1850. Over the next few decades, the courthouse evolved through fires and rebuilds, each version grander than the last. The current and fifth iteration, completed in 1892, was designed by architect M.A. Orlopp of Little Rock and is a striking example of Romanesque Revival architecture. Its red sandstone walls, blue granite base, turrets, and once-looming clock tower made it a symbol of civic pride and resilience.

After serving as the hub for county government until 1965, and undergoing renovations in 1968, the building found new life in 2007 as The Old Red Museum of Dallas County History and Culture. This museum educated visitors on the diverse cultural, economic, and social stories that shaped the region. And though the museum exhibits are moving to the nearby Dallas County Criminal Courts/Records Building Complex, their mission continues, alongside expanded online resources for public access.

 

Nearby, a new layer of history was added in 2023 with the unveiling of the Allen Brooks Historical Marker. This solemn memorial commemorates the 1910 lynching of Allen Brooks, a painful yet essential part of Dallas’ past. Acknowledging this event is vital to understanding the city’s journey through justice, injustice, and reconciliation.

 

Visiting Old Red is a reminder that the history we inherit—its triumphs and tragedies—shapes the world we live in today. It invites reflection, learning, and a commitment to creating a better future.

 

Places to Visit Nearby:

• Dealey Plaza and The Sixth Floor Museum – Learn about JFK’s life and legacy.

• Reunion Tower – Get panoramic views of Dallas from above.

• Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum – A powerful educational experience.

• Pioneer Plaza – Walk among the bronze cattle drive sculptures in this urban park.

Family-Friendly Places to Eat Nearby:

• Ellen’s – Southern comfort food with hearty breakfasts.

• Twisted Trompo – Casual tacos and street eats a few blocks away.

• RJ Mexican Cuisine – A local favorite in the West End for Tex-Mex lovers.

• Y.O. Ranch Steakhouse – Great for families who enjoy a true Texas-style dinner.

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