Franklin County Courthouse | Pasco

The Franklin County Courthouse, located in Pasco, Washington, is a historically significant and architecturally distinguished building that serves as the center of county government and a symbol of the region’s civic pride. Constructed during 1912–1913, the courthouse replaced earlier, more modest facilities to meet the growing administrative demands of Franklin County, which was rapidly developing in the early 20th century. This building not only reflects the political and social growth of the area but also stands as a remarkable example of the Second Renaissance Revival architectural style, common in important public buildings of that era.

Historical Background

Franklin County was originally formed in 1883, with the first courthouse being a small wooden structure in Ainsworth, the original county seat. By 1887, the county seat shifted to Pasco due to its strategic location along the Northern Pacific Railroad and the Columbia River, which spurred economic growth. Early courthouse facilities were modest and temporary, but as the population and complexity of county governance increased, local leaders recognized the need for a permanent, grander courthouse that would reflect Franklin County’s emerging identity and ambitions.

In 1911, plans were approved to construct the current courthouse. The design was commissioned to the Seattle architectural firm C. Lewis Wilson and Company, known for their work on public buildings in the Pacific Northwest. Construction was completed in 1913, and the building quickly became a landmark for the community.

Architectural Design and Features

The courthouse exemplifies the Second Renaissance Revival style, which draws on classical Renaissance architecture, emphasizing symmetry, proportion, and ornate detailing. It is a two-story building made primarily of brick and terracotta, materials chosen for durability and aesthetic appeal.

Exterior:
The building’s façade is distinguished by its balanced symmetry and classical detailing, including pilasters, cornices, and arched windows. A key visual centerpiece is the large copper-clad dome that rises above the structure, topped with a clock on each of its four cardinal faces, making it visible from multiple directions. The dome’s copper has naturally aged to a distinctive green patina, giving it character and historic charm.

Dome and Skylight:
The dome crowns a central rotunda, which is illuminated by a 28-foot diameter leaded art glass skylight. This skylight is a unique architectural feature that bathes the interior in natural light and highlights the building’s artistic flourishes.

Interior:
Inside, visitors enter a grand rotunda adorned with cream-colored marble walls accented with azure and gold decorative motifs. The elegant finishes and intricate moldings create a formal, dignified atmosphere appropriate for the functions of justice and government. The courthouse features original woodwork, brass fixtures, and historic courtrooms that retain much of their early 20th-century character.

Historical and Civic Significance

The Franklin County Courthouse not only functions as the legal and administrative heart of the county but also stands as a monument to the region’s progress. Its construction signaled a period of optimism and growth, as Pasco evolved from a railroad town into a regional hub for agriculture, commerce, and governance.

In 1978, the courthouse was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural significance and its role in the county’s history. This designation has helped preserve the building’s integrity and ensure that future generations can appreciate its heritage.

Renovations and Preservation Efforts

Recognizing the courthouse’s importance and the need to adapt to modern requirements, a major restoration and renovation project was undertaken in 2006. This comprehensive effort aimed to:

Preserve Historical Integrity:
Restoration work carefully conserved original architectural details, including marble, woodwork, and decorative elements.

Structural Upgrades:
The building received seismic retrofitting to improve its earthquake resistance, a crucial enhancement given the Pacific Northwest’s seismic activity.

Modernization:
Updates included installing modern heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, upgrading electrical and plumbing infrastructure, and making the courthouse more accessible for people with disabilities, all while maintaining the building’s historic character.

These improvements have allowed the courthouse to continue operating as a vital governmental facility while honoring its historic status.

Current Use and Functions

Today, the Franklin County Courthouse remains the principal seat of county government. It houses various county offices and services, including:

The Board of County Commissioners

The County Clerk’s Office

The Treasurer’s Office

Courtrooms for county legal proceedings

The building continues to be a hub for civic administration, public records, and justice, serving thousands of residents annually.

Location and Visitor Information

Address: 1016 N 4th Avenue, Pasco, Washington, 99301

Contact: Phone (509) 545-3525

Public Access: The courthouse is open to the public during regular business hours, offering access to county services and occasional public tours that highlight its architectural and historical significance.

Cultural and Community Importance

Beyond its governmental role, the courthouse functions as a cultural landmark and a symbol of Franklin County’s heritage. Its enduring presence connects current residents with the county’s early development and ongoing story. Architecturally, it stands as one of the finest examples of Renaissance Revival style in the region, reflecting early 20th-century ideals of permanence, order, and civic pride.

By maintaining and preserving this historic structure, Franklin County honors its past while continuing to meet the needs of a modern community, making the courthouse both a functional space and a treasured monument.