Fifth courthouse on this site. Erected 1890-1891, this handsome building is a Texas version of the French Second Empire style. First courthouse (1867) was a 1-room log cabin housing county records, lawyers and land agents' offices, and mail station. It was succeeded by 3 stone structures. Contractors Moodie & Ellis and architect W.C. Dodson built this native stone edifice. The clock tower, added after completion, was reinforced with steel in 1969. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1970