Springfield District Court facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Springfield District Court
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1600 E. Columbus Ave., Springfield, Massachusetts |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1930 |
| Architect | E. C. & G. C. Gardner |
| Architectural style | Classical Revival |
| MPS | Downtown Springfield MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 83000765 |
| Added to NRHP | February 24, 1983 |
The Springfield District Court, now known as the City Hall Annex, is a historic building in Springfield, Massachusetts. It was built between 1929 and 1930. This building is a great example of a style called Classical Revival architecture.
It was designed by famous local architects. For many years, it served as a courthouse for the area. Later, in the 1970s, the city started using it for government offices. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
What is the Old Springfield Courthouse?
The former Springfield District Court building is in downtown Springfield. It is located right next to the Springfield Municipal Group, where the main City Hall is. The building faces East Columbus Avenue.
It is a two-story building made from steel and concrete. The outside is covered in limestone. It looks like old Greek or Roman buildings, which is typical for the Classical Revival style.
How Does the Building Look?
The front of the building is wide, with nine sections. The middle three sections stick out a little. This is where the main entrance is located. The entrances are set back, with two large columns in front.
These columns are placed between two flat columns, called pilasters. The sections on the sides of the building have big windows. These windows are divided into many parts. Decorative metal panels separate the windows on the first and second floors.
The History of the Building
Construction on the building started in 1929. It was built to replace an older police court that had become too small. The new building served as a district court. It handled many different court needs for Springfield and nearby towns.
The building was connected to other facilities. There was a tunnel for safely moving people involved in court cases. There was also a bridge, sometimes called the "Bridge of Sighs." This bridge was also used to move people involved in court cases.
The building was used as a courthouse until the 1970s. A new courthouse was then built at Court Square. After that, the old building was given to the city. The city has used it for municipal offices ever since.
