Product Description

There is no more eloquent expression of a civilization’s economic progress and cultural maturity than its civic architecture. The historic courthouses of Texas testify to the independence and fortitude of a resolute people determined to wrench order out of the devastation of Civil War and to enforce justice on a frontier advanced beyond the reaches of law. During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries—termed by author Michael Andrews "the Great Age of Texas Courthouses"—county courthouses rose as the predominant symbols of progress and stability, optimism, and robust community pride.

Historic Texas Courthouses gives attention to 100 landmark courthouses in Texas. Architects of the past become living people to the reader. Author Michael A. Andrews delivers an education in the elements of architectural style. Details about the artisans and their materials and methods are recorded. Stories abound of the spirited competition by towns for the trophy of being designated "county seat."

In 1999, the Historic Courthouses of Texas were featured on the National Trust’s list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places. This led to an awareness and outcry over the deterioration and loss of many of these important structures, so that the Texas Legislature and then-Governor George W. Bush vigorously responded with a program to fund their restoration. The Texas Historical Commission ably administered that program, the most ambitious statewide preservation effort in the history of Texas, and many of the venerable buildings have been restored to their former grandeur.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #296470 in Books
• Published on: 2006-11-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 276 pages

Review
". . . a beautiful book, not only is it a great source of information, but is a pleasure to look at the gorgeous colored pictures. It would make a wonderful Christmas gift for anyone." -- Mexia Daily News

". . . as elegant as the architecture it showcases . . . none surpasses this one for visual impact." -- Austin American Statesman

". . . stunning color photographs show off the buildings' clock towers, arches, carvings and other embellishments to great advantage. . . . This book is packed with enough 'visual knockouts' to delight lovers of old buildings in Texas and beyond." -- Preservation magazine, Jan/Feb 2007

"Best Texas Book of 2006" -- Texas Reads syndicated columnist, Glenn Dromgoole

"This volume may never leave the coffee table for Texans who love courthouses--and there are legions of them." -- Southern Living

"beautifully illustrated" and "stunning photography . . . even non-Texans will find Historic Texas Courthouses an enjoyable read." -- Texas Highways

About the Author
Author MICHAEL ANDREWS has long been a friend of historic preservation, both during his time as a U.S. Congressman from Texas and later as a member of the Board of Trustees of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. He is an attorney practicing in Washington, D.C., where he lives with his wife, Ann.

Customer Reviews

TEXAS TREASURES
Simply the defintive book on Texas Courthouses...the images are superb and the text enlightening. I have always loved the majestic courthouse, expecially when they are in the town square. Texas is blessed with many great historic Courthouses and this book displays them in their best light. I expecially appreciate the Tarrant, Bexar, and Jefferson County Courthouse, these are so grand in their own distinct way. If you have any interest in this subject, dont hesitate to order this book. Mr. Andrews should be proud of this work, it's a perfect tribute to these quitenticential Texas courthouse.

True Texas
What a beautiful book to look at and an interesting book to read. It truly covers the courthouse treasures of Texas. I particularly like the way it divides up the buildings by their architectural style, not their geographical locations. Great addition to our library.

WONDERFUL!
Finally, a serious book about courthouses. The photographs are breathtaking, and the author brings a unique perspective on the history of these magnificent buildings. BRAVO!