Old Fayette County Courthouse

The Old Fayette County Courthouse in Lexington, Kentucky, stands as a beacon of architectural splendor and historical significance in the heart of the city. This iconic structure, located at 215 West Main Street, has been a centerpiece of Lexington’s downtown since its completion in 1900. With its striking Richardsonian Romanesque design, the courthouse not only serves as a functional civic building but also as a testament to the architectural and cultural heritage of the region.

A Glimpse into History

The site of the Old Fayette County Courthouse has a storied past, hosting predecessors that date back to the late 18th century. The first courthouse, built in 1782, was not located at the current site. The four courthouses that followed were destroyed, some by tragic accidents and others by purposeful demolition. The previous courthouse, designed by Thomas Boyd and completed in 1887, fell victim to a devastating fire in 1897. The present structure was then commissioned, designed by the Cleveland-based architectural firm Lehman & Schmitt, and completed in February 1900. The building cost a total of $323,000, a significant sum at the time, reflecting its monumental stature and the importance placed on its construction.

Architectural Marvel

The Old Fayette County Courthouse is a prime example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture, a style introduced to the United States in the 1870s by H.H. Richardson. The courthouse's design features a Greek cross plan and rises to a height of four stories, including the basement. The exterior is adorned with rough native Kentucky limestone, a material that not only adds to the building’s aesthetic appeal but also ties it to the local heritage of the Bluegrass region.

The building's most distinctive feature is its bulbous octagonal dome, which sits atop a cubic drum pierced by tall, round-arched windows. The dome is crowned by a bronze lantern, which originally featured a horse-shaped weathervane. This lantern houses a bell that has been a part of Fayette County’s courthouses since 1806, surviving numerous fires and demolitions. The bell's continued presence symbolizes resilience and continuity amidst change.

Exterior Elegance

The courthouse's four façades each boast a central entrance topped by round arches and shallow balconies. The north and south façades are particularly notable for their balconies, which are supported by grotesque heads, adding a whimsical touch to the otherwise stately structure. The south façade, facing W. Main Street, features a grand flight of stone steps leading to the main entrance, flanked by large bronze lamps on richly-carved pedestals. The overall symmetry of the building, with identical windows flanking the central protruding bays on each façade, contributes to its imposing and harmonious appearance.

Interior Grandeur

Upon entering the courthouse, visitors are greeted by the grandeur of the rotunda, which rises 105 feet above the ground floor. The original interior featured a grand Y-shaped staircase leading to the second floor, where the main courtroom was located. The courtroom and other major rooms were adorned with carved woods, reflecting the building's civic importance and the attention to detail in its construction.

Over the years, the interior has undergone significant changes, particularly during renovations in the 1960s and 1970s. These renovations included the dismantling of the grand staircase, the redistribution of office spaces, and the installation of air conditioning, which altered the original decor and layout. Despite these changes, the rotunda remains a focal point, with its octagonal ceiling supported by large columns and lit by both natural and artificial light.

A Modern Renaissance

In 2001, Fayette County’s courts moved to a new complex, and the Old Courthouse underwent a transformation to house the Lexington History Center. This renovation, although not fully funded as initially planned, allowed the building to host a collection of institutions, including the Lexington Public Safety Museum and the Kentucky Renaissance Pharmacy Museum. In recent years, the courthouse has continued to evolve, now featuring Zim's Café and the VisitLEX Visitor's Center on the ground floor, municipal offices on the upper floors, and a large rentable event space below the rotunda.

A Living Landmark

Today, the Old Fayette County Courthouse stands not only as a historical monument but also as a vibrant part of Lexington’s civic and cultural life. Its blend of historical architecture and modern functionality makes it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re interested in exploring its rich history, marveling at its architectural details, or attending an event in its grand spaces, the Old Fayette County Courthouse offers a unique glimpse into the past and present of Lexington, Kentucky.

In conclusion, the Old Fayette County Courthouse is more than just a building; it is a symbol of Lexington’s enduring spirit and a testament to the city's dedication to preserving its historical and architectural heritage. Its walls echo the stories of the past while continuing to serve the community, making it an unmissable attraction in the heart of downtown Lexington.