A Glimpse into Nearly 200 Years of Cape Cod History
The ongoing reconstruction of the Barnstable County Superior Courthouse is revealing some remarkable details about one of the County’s most historic buildings.
For the first time since 1832, the building’s original old-growth pine cornices and columns are being completely exposed as crews prepare these architectural features for painting.
Did you know?
Designed by renowned architect Alexander Parris in the Greek Revival style, the courthouse was intended to have the appearance of a building constructed entirely of stone. However, with limited materials, construction methods, and funding available locally in the 1830s, builders turned to an ingenious alternative: old-growth pine.
The result was a distinctive architectural design that has remained part of Cape Cod’s history for nearly two centuries.
According to original County Commissioner payment records, the 1832 front section of the courthouse was constructed by A. & J.P. Taylor for just $19,270.70.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since the 1970s, the courthouse continues to offer a fascinating connection to Barnstable County’s architectural heritage.
As reconstruction progresses, we’re preserving an important piece of our past while preparing this historic landmark for the future.
