Howard County Courthouse (Iowa) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Howard County Courthouse
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 Location in Iowa
Location in the United States
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| Location | Elm St. Cresco, Iowa |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1879-1880 |
| Architect | B.D. Everingham J.L. Harlow |
| Architectural style | Italianate |
| MPS | County Courthouses in Iowa TR |
| NRHP reference No. | 81000246 |
| Added to NRHP | July 2, 1981 |
The Howard County Courthouse is an important building in Cresco, Iowa. It was built in 1880. This courthouse is where the local government of Howard County does its work. It's also a historic place, added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1981. This means it's recognized for its special history and architecture. It's the third building used for court and county business in Howard County.
Contents
A Look Back: The Courthouse Story
Choosing a County Seat
When Howard County was first set up in 1855, leaders had to pick a main town. This main town is called the county seat. It's where the county government offices are. At first, Vernon Springs was chosen as the county seat. But later that year, the court and all county records were moved to Howard Center.
New Locations for the Courthouse
Other towns wanted to be the county seat too. New Oregon tried, but a committee chose Pikes Peak instead. A courthouse was built there in 1859. As the county grew, a bigger courthouse was needed. The town of Cresco offered to build the new courthouse.
The Current Courthouse Building
The county leaders accepted Cresco's offer. A new courthouse was built there in 1876. Sadly, this building was destroyed in a fire. The current courthouse was started in 1879 and finished a year later in 1880. This is the building you see today.
Building Style: Italianate Architecture
What is Italianate Style?
The Howard County Courthouse is built in the Italianate style. This was a popular way to design buildings in the 1800s. It often includes features like tall, narrow windows, wide overhanging roofs, and decorative brackets. The courthouse uses red and buff-colored bricks, which are light yellowish-brown.
Changes and Importance
Two parts were added to the building in 1964. Even with these additions, the Howard County Courthouse is one of the last buildings in Iowa still showing the Italianate style. This courthouse is important because it represents the county government. It also shows the political power and importance of Cresco as the county seat.
