Historic Vernon Parish Courthouse

When Vernon Parish was first created in 1871, Dr. Edmund E. Smart donated a block of land for the first courthouse and other city structures. Early leaders built a simple wood-frame structure which served the new community well until the 1880's when citizens were able to finance a more substantial building. Architectural problems, created by artesian wells on the site, caused the tower to pull away from the main building, and in 1910 the building was once again replaced.

Built in the shape of a Greek cross, the historic Vernon Courthouse is the only Beaux-Arts building in the parish. It has two full stories and a third story cupola, which has a clock on each side. The original bronze bell, once located inside the dome, has been removed and placed inside a gazebo on the lawn. The entrances on each side of the building are flanked by Corinthian columns, with pediments which have elaborate floral decoration. Originally constructed of tan brick, the building has been painted white in recent years.

See more about Vernon Parish.

See more about Leesville.

2011 Tour Ward House Booker-Lewis House Oak Pointe Wellness Center Historic Vernon Parish Courthouse Legendre House Tracy House Dr. E. E. Smart House Red Studio

Past Tours Lyons Building / Lyons-Stelly Home Booker-Lewis / Ward House Gallery One Ellleven / Red Studio Ballagh Home

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