Leon County Courthouse

Centerville, Texas

Master Plan/Restoration

The Leon County Courthouse is one of about 80 remaining courthouses which are constructed prior to the turn of the 20th century. The Texas Historical Commission began a Courthouse Restoration Program in 1999 based on House Bill (HB) 1341. Since its implementation over $ 100 million has been directed towards the preservation of Texas Historic Courthouses. The Leon County Courthouse constructed in 1885-1886 received funding for a master plan and completion of construction elements under round III and received emergency funding in round III.

Sinclair & Wright Architects completed the master plan in 2000 which included documentation of the existing building, research of court records dating back to the 1850; search for historic photographs, search of archives in Austin and interviews with local citizens and officials. The master plan provided schematic drawings and descriptions of proposed alterations. It also included possible phasing of project components and potential construction costs.

In 2001 the Texas Historical Commission authorized Sinclair & Wright Architects to proceed with preparation of plans and specifications to the 90% completion levels. The plans and specifications were approved and the project is awaiting funding.

Project Description:

Sitework: Accessible parking, sidewalks and a new ramp. Subsurface drainage system, removal of existing plantings and site utilities.

Structural: Miscellaneous foundation repairs, reinforcement of wood roof trusses and exterior masonry walls.

Architectural: Complete restoration for the period of 1900-1936 due to the lack of substantial historic data.