The Yolo County Courthouse in Woodland, California, stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural grandeur of Yolo County. This historic courthouse, which served the Superior Court of California until 2015, is a landmark that draws visitors with its Beaux-Arts architectural style, storied past, and elegant design. A visit to this courthouse offers a glimpse into the legal history of Yolo County and a chance to appreciate the beauty of early 20th-century architecture.
The story of the Yolo County Courthouse begins in 1864 when the original building was erected. Frank Freeman, one of Woodland's founders, generously offered an entire city block for the courthouse's construction. The boundaries of this block were Court, North, Second, and Third Streets. Albert Bennett, an architect from Sacramento who also contributed to the California State Capitol building, was chosen to design the courthouse. The builder, P. McManus, was hired in June 1863 for $24,250, with the expectation that the construction would be completed by October 1, 1864. However, the final cost rose to $27,858, and the construction took longer than planned.
The original courthouse was a two-story brick Italianate style edifice. Unfortunately, subsequent earthquakes in 1892, 1904, and 1906 weakened the building's structural integrity and damaged its ventilation system. By 1911, the Yolo County Grand Jury, Board of Supervisors, and the California State Board of Health deemed the building unsanitary and unfit for court transactions. In 1911, a county-wide election was held to approve a $300,000 bond measure for a new courthouse, but it failed. A subsequent measure in December 1911 also failed. However, in 1916, the Board of Supervisors placed another measure on the ballot for $200,000, which the citizens passed. The old courthouse was demolished, and construction of the new building began.
The new courthouse, designed by architect William Henry Weeks and built by contractor Robert Trost, was completed in 1917 at a cost of $300,000. Weeks, who had also designed the Woodland Public Library, created a building that is a shining example of Beaux-Arts architecture. The construction was celebrated with a grand ceremony attended by 3,000 people, and the Grand Lodge of Masons of California laid the cornerstone. All businesses and schools were closed for the celebration, highlighting the community's pride in this new landmark.
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The Yolo County Courthouse is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture, displaying influences of Greek, Roman, and Renaissance styles. The building features two full stories, an attic, and a basement. The exterior is made of concrete with Colusa sandstone, and the cornices are crafted from material sourced from a terra cotta factory in Lincoln, California. The courthouse's facade is adorned with classical columns and intricate detailing, making it a visual delight for architecture enthusiasts.
Inside, the courthouse boasts two rotundas on the second and third floors, with a main corridor spanning the length of the building. The rotundas are made of marble pilaster columns with decorative murals in niches located near them. The corridors and rotundas are constructed from cut and polished marble, with decorative copper handrails and hand-blown, egg-shaped glass light fixtures. These elements combine to create an atmosphere of elegance and grandeur, befitting a building of such historical significance.
In the 1980s, the courthouse underwent extensive interior remodeling to preserve its historical features while accommodating modern needs. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987, recognizing its architectural and historical importance. Although the courthouse originally housed other county administrative offices, these have been relocated as the courts have grown. Today, the building serves as the home of the Yolo County Probation Department, continuing its legacy of public service.
Visitors to the Yolo County Courthouse can explore its beautiful interiors and appreciate the craftsmanship that went into its construction. The marble rotundas, decorative murals, and elegant light fixtures offer a glimpse into the opulence of early 20th-century design. The courthouse's exterior, with its classical columns and detailed cornices, is a striking example of Beaux-Arts architecture that stands out in the downtown Woodland Historic District.
Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Yolo County Courthouse is a must-visit destination in Woodland, California. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and continued use as a public building make it a fascinating landmark that tells the story of Yolo County's past and present. So, take a stroll through the courthouse grounds, step inside its grand halls, and immerse yourself in the history and elegance of this remarkable building.
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