Old County Court House 701 G Street, ca. 1907

The plot of land on which the courthouse was built was formerly used by the city to house livestock. Commonly known as Magnolia Square, the parcel was purchased on October 21, 1905, from the city for the sum of one dollar. The Atlanta firm of Miles & Bradt constructed the building using plans drawn by New York architects Gifford and Bates. The cornerstone was laid on December 27, 1906, by W. M. and M. H. Ballard, and construction was completed on December 18, 1907, at a cost of $97,613.00. This Neoclassical Revival design was built at the juncture of Victorian and Edwardian styles. In its conception we see philosophy reflected in architecture: four identical entrances suggest that any door leads to justice; the interior columns indicate thatjustice is not to be taken lightly and the intricate iron stair rail shows that the course of justice is always a delicate balance. Steel vaults and sturdy oak finishes allow citizens to feel safe and secure in the knowledge that the government is working for their public good, safety and welfare. The new courthouse, completed in 1991, faces the old courthouse across a mall which connects and underscores the architectural and societal links between past and present.