Designed by famed Texas courthouse architect J. Reily Gordon and originally constructed in 1892, the Erath County Courthouse restoration focused on preserving the building’s historic craftsmanship while reinforcing and modernizing the structure for continued civic use. Partnering with Norman Alston Architects, JRJ Construction executed a comprehensive historic restoration that honored the courthouse’s original architectural character while upgrading critical systems and interior spaces.

The restoration included the complete removal and re-pointing of mortar joints, extensive cleaning and patching of the courthouse’s white limestone masonry, and structural steel enhancements within the attic to provide additional support. Interior work focused heavily on restoring the historic courtroom, including reconstruction of the courtroom railings, judge’s bench, jury area, and clerk’s desk, along with reinstallation of the courtroom balcony. Additional work included restoration of marble flooring, fabrication and installation of new wood wainscoting, smooth plaster restoration beneath the balcony and throughout the building, and installation of historically accurate wood windows with traditional weight pockets and sash cords. Mechanical and life safety upgrades included a new heating and ventilation system, restored and replicated historic lighting fixtures, and a code-compliant fire alarm system. Exterior roofing restoration included replacement of deteriorated shingles with metal shingles at the tower and red German clay tile roofing throughout the main structure.

JRJ Construction completed the project below the original construction budget, allowing Erath County to incorporate additional restoration improvements through owner-directed upgrades and change orders during construction.