Lancaster County Courthouse
National Register Listing
Street Address:
104 N. Main St., Lancaster, SC (Lancaster County)
NRHP Nomination
Record Number:
S10817729001
Description and Narrative:
The Lancaster County Courthouse, of probable Robert Mills design and displaying superb craftsmanship, has been in constant use as a courthouse since its ca. 1828 completion. The contractor was Willis W. Alsobrook. This two-story handmade brick building of English bond features Flemish bond framing the windows. A Venetian window is behind the judge’s seat, and chimney placement, doors, and windows set within recessed arches are in the English Palladian manner. The entablature with cornice modillions, the portico pediment and the stucco over brick modified Tuscan columns are of the Roman Revival, or Classical Revival, tradition. Other features include the double flight of steps with arched opening below, iron handrails and banisters, and semi-circular and semi-elliptical fanlights. The first floor walls are solid brick 24 inches thick, the second floor walls are 18 inches thick. A series of double barrel brick vaults supports the second floor and forms the ceiling of the first. The floors were brick but covered with wood in 1892. A ground floor room still retains an original fireplace. The Courthouse square contains an historical marker and Confederate and World War II memorials. As a National Historic Landmark, the Lancaster County Courthouse is considered to “possess exceptional value or quality in illustrating and interpreting the heritage of the United States.” Listed in the National Register February 24, 1971; Designated a National Historic Landmark November 7, 1973.
Period of Significance:
1828
Level of Significance:
State
Area of Significance:
Politics/Government;Architecture
National Register Determination:
National Historic Landmark
Date of Certification:
February 24 1971
Date of Certification as a National Historic Landmark:
November 7 1973
