The Old Red Courthouse, a striking red sandstone edifice in Dallas, Texas, has stood as a testament to the city’s rich history since its construction in 1892. Designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style by architect Max A. Orlopp Jr., the building originally served as the Dallas County Courthouse.
Over the years, the courthouse bore witness to significant events, including President John F. Kennedy’s motorcade passing by minutes before his assassination in 1963.
In 1966, a new courthouse replaced Old Red, leading to its closure. Recognizing its historical value, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
A major restoration between 2005 and 2007 revitalized the structure, and it reopened as the Old Red Museum of Dallas County History & Culture in 2007. The museum showcased Dallas County’s evolution, featuring exhibits from prehistory to the present day.
In 2021, plans emerged to return the building to its original judicial function. The Texas Fifth District Court of Appeals is set to occupy the courthouse, with renovations to accommodate modern court operations.
Last Updated on January 7, 2025 by F. E. Mufute