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The Yavapai County Courthouse is a historic government building located in Prescott, Arizona.

Visual Characteristics

The courthouse is a three-story structure constructed primarily of red sandstone quarried from the nearby San Francisco Peaks. It features a prominent central clock tower with a copper dome. The architectural style is Beaux-Arts, characterized by its symmetrical facade, arched windows, and decorative stonework. The building measures approximately 120 feet in height.

Location & Access Logistics

The courthouse is situated at 120 S. Cortez Street in downtown Prescott, approximately 100 miles north of Phoenix. It is centrally located on the Prescott Courthouse Plaza. Ample street parking is available around the plaza, with additional paid parking garages within a 2-block radius. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stop is approximately 0.3 miles east on Cortez Street, served by Route 1.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Yavapai County Courthouse began in 1916 and was completed in 1917. The architect was George W. Kramer. The building was designed to serve as the administrative center for Yavapai County government and to house its judicial functions. The red sandstone used in its construction is a common geological feature of the region, formed from ancient sedimentary deposits.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the public areas of the courthouse, including the main lobby and rotunda, which feature original tilework and architectural details. The Yavapai County Historical Society maintains a small exhibit on the second floor detailing the county's history. Exterior viewing of the clock tower and facade is recommended.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on each floor for public use. Limited shaded areas are present on the surrounding plaza. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong within the building and on the plaza. Food vendors and restaurants are located on the streets surrounding the courthouse plaza.

Best Time to Visit

For interior viewing, weekdays between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM are optimal. The clock tower chimes hourly. For exterior photography, late afternoon light provides favorable illumination on the sandstone facade.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that the clock tower's four faces were intentionally set to slightly different times upon completion, though this has never been officially verified. The courthouse has served continuously as the seat of Yavapai County government since its construction.

Nearby Landmarks

• Prescott Public Library (0.1km West)
• Sharlot Hall Museum (0.4km North)
• Historic Downtown Prescott (0.2km Radius)
• Palace Hotel (0.3km Southwest)
• Elks Theatre (0.2km Northwest)