Built in 1936-37 with funds from the Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works, the Davidson County Courthouse sits in the Public Square, just as the three preceding buildings did. One of the few Art Deco buildings in Nashville, it was designed by Frederick Hirons (1882-1942) of New York and Emmons Woolwine (1899-1951) of Nashville. The exterior is Indiana limestone accented with granite and features twelve Doric columns. The interior features red Tennessee marble and restrained Art Deco details like polished brass elevator doors and bronze stair rails. The surrounding Public Square Park features stone engravings of buildings that once stood in the area; two observation towers with historical maps and drawings depicting Nashville's founding and evolution; and a civil rights inspired public art installation in the northwest corner. It was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.
Davidson County Courthouse and Public Square
36.166685, -86.77823
Description
Built in 1936-37 with funds from the Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works, the Davidson County Courthouse sits in the Public Square, just as the three preceding buildings did. One of the few Art Deco buildings in Nashville, it was designed by Frederick Hirons (1882-1942) of New York and Emmons Woolwine (1899-1951) of Nashville. The exterior is Indiana limestone accented with granite and features twelve Doric columns. The interior features red Tennessee marble and restrained Art Deco details like polished brass elevator doors and bronze stair rails. The surrounding Public Square Park features stone engravings of buildings that once stood in the area; two observation towers with historical maps and drawings depicting Nashville's founding and evolution; and a civil rights inspired public art installation in the northwest corner. It was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.