This is actually the third incarnation of the county's courthouse. The original, built way back in 1842 in Marion, cost a whopping $40,000-a small fortune back then! Standing two stories tall and made of solid brick, it witnessed the early days of justice in Linn County. Fast-forward to 1855, and we had a courthouse sequel, still in Marion. It seems Marion was really vying to be the county seat, while Cedar Rapids, with persistent determination, finally secured the plot for this courthouse in 1919.
Now, you might find it amusing-or perhaps a bit frustrating-that even though voters initially didn’t support a $1.3 million bond to build it, the county board of supervisors went ahead and planned for it anyway. Persistence paid off, as a smaller referendum did pass in 1922, and voila, we now have this beauty, completed in 1925 for just under half a million dollars.
Designed by the Urbana, Illinois architect Joseph Royer in the Beaux-Arts style, the courthouse was ready to impress. It's a three-story Bedford stone structure resting on a robust granite foundation. The building's main block, flanked by two stately short wings, boasts classical elements galore-think full entablature, a nine-bay entrance porch, and ten fluted Ionic columns.
But don't let the refined exterior fool you; the building has seen some tough times. Remember the flood of 2008? It wreaked significant havoc, but thanks to a thorough renovation completed in 2014, the courthouse stands as grand as ever.
Step inside (well, metaphorically for now), and you'll find travertine walls and floors gleaming with marble, lending an air of opulence. For all its grandeur, it's also a symbol of resilience and adaptation, having evolved from its humble beginnings to this striking piece of architecture.
So, whether you're interested in its history, style, or simply a good tale of persistence, the Linn County Courthouse has something captivating for everyone. Ready to move on and explore more jewels of Cedar Rapids? Let’s go!
