Des Moines County Court House

Des Moines County Court House is a courthouse in Burlington displaying PWA Moderne architecture with buff-colored brick walls, Bedford limestone trim, and a symmetrical facade design. The building features office spaces along central corridors on each floor and secure vaults in the corners for storing important county records.

The building was constructed in 1940 with Public Works Administration funding, replacing a 1882 sandstone structure that had previously served the region. This reconstruction was part of larger infrastructure programs supporting local institutions during the economic downturn.

The courthouse includes a monument with a stone carving of Black Hawk that recalls the 1832 treaty opening Iowa to European settlement. This artwork shapes the public space and reminds visitors of the region's past.

Visitors can enter the building during business hours, though some areas may not be open to the public. Parking is available near the property, and an information desk can help with questions about the building.

A separate small building constructed in 1997 serves specifically for prisoner transport after the original jail was removed from the courthouse. This addition shows how the requirements of modern court operations have changed over the decades.

Location: Burlington

Architectural style: PWA Moderne

GPS coordinates: 40.81200,-91.10110

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:42