If you’re hoping to uncover the secrets of Denton, then a visit to the renowned Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum is an absolute must! This iconic attraction offers something for everyone, from tourists just passing through to proud locals looking for exciting things to do. It’s sure to be a fun and informative experience, no matter what your background or reason for visiting may be.
To this day, the Texas state courthouse continues to intrigue and draw in crowds thanks to its distinct features. Constructed back in 1896 under the guidance of Waco-based architect W.C. Dodson, this building has stood as a testament to time for over one hundred years!
About the Place
If you’re looking for a small-town feel with heaps of character, come to Denton! This northern corner of Dallas-Fort Worth is home to both the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University. Aside from educational institutions, this city offers plenty of music and artistry—take a stroll around its quaint downtown square and experience it all firsthand!
The 1896 Courthouse on the Square was designed by W. C. Dodson, a well-known architect from Waco, and it exhibits unique characteristics among Texas state courthouses of its time. Dodson created an elegant yet imposing edifice using various construction materials, such as pink granite and limestone.
With a wealth of permanent and rotating exhibits, the Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum offers visitors an intriguing glimpse into Denton’s past. Additionally, if you are looking to explore more historical sites in the local area, there are two additional museums: The Bayless-Selby House Museum and the Denton County African American Museum – both of which are well worth visiting!
History of Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum
The Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum, located in the historic 1896 Denton County Courthouse, recalls local history through a variety of exhibits. Memorabilia pertinent to the early Denton and north Texas is displayed in rotating and permanent exhibitions.
Throughout the years, The Square has seen many changes, from dirt roads trafficked by horses and buggies to shops, restaurants, bars, and event venues. Today, visitors and residents alike enjoy shopping, dining, visiting the museums, and attending annual events in downtown Denton.
For many years, the Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum has been a beloved symbol of Denton, TX. After undergoing an extensive restoration in 2004 guided by W.C. Dodson’s original blueprints, it stands tall and proud today; made from local limestone and sandstone sources from around Texas, such as Pecos’ red sandstone and Mineral Wells’ tan sandstone, to name a few!
What to do in Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum
The Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Denton. This museum is housed in the historic 1896 courthouse and has rotating exhibits that showcase area culture and history.
The Courthouse Museum not only offers captivating exhibitions and lectures throughout the year but also provides a unique experience—a pilgrimage to John B. Denton’s burial site located on its lawn! This is especially extraordinary for visitors who know that both the city and county of Denton were named after him. Take this special opportunity to pay your respects at his grave!
Home to an array of artifacts from all over Texas and beyond, this museum’s collection is vast and unparalleled – so much so that it has been acknowledged by the esteemed Texas Historical Commission through its Curatorial Facilities Certification Program.
Take a journey through the dynamic history of Denton and North Texas at the renowned Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum! With an abundance of interactive activities, this delightful attraction is ideal for both adults and children alike. Don’t miss out on this chance to learn more about our region’s past while creating precious memories with your family.
Discover the captivating past of Denton County at the historic 1896 Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum, situated in downtown Denton. This iconic building is an essential part of local history and a great place for visitors to immerse themselves in its rich narrative.
Home to the final resting place of John B. Denton, for whom both the county and city are named, this museum is a must-see destination all year round! Explore captivating displays and enriching lectures that will educate as well as entertain.
Discover Denton’s unique and storied past, deeply intertwined with the legendary Chisholm Trail–connecting sprawling Texas cattle ranches to their northern counterparts. Explore a myriad of museums, art galleries, and restaurants that celebrate this remarkable heritage! Plus, marvel at one of America’s largest equine farms in all its glory; it is an unparalleled destination for tourists passionate about cowboy culture or horsemanship alike! Browse next article