Robert N.C. Nix, Sr. Federal Building

The Robert N.C. Nix, Sr. Federal Building is a seven-story courthouse in Center City Philadelphia with facades of Indiana limestone and pink Milford granite trim. Inside, it houses multiple courtrooms, a law library, and the Philadelphia Passport Agency on the ground level.

The structure was completed in 1941 during the Great Depression as a federal works project of that era. It was renamed in 1985 to honor Robert N.C. Nix Sr., Pennsylvania's first African-American congressman.

The sculptural reliefs on the exterior walls depict themes of justice and public service, created by artists commissioned during the building's construction. These decorative elements reflect the civic values that the courthouse represents to the city.

The building sits on Market Street in the downtown area and is easy to reach on foot with clear signage. As an active courthouse, visitors should expect security screening at entrances and plan their visit accordingly.

The building was constructed as part of New Deal programs in the 1930s and features distinctive Streamline Moderne styling typical of that period. Its sculptural details and materials represent the craftsmanship and public investment priorities of the era.

Location: Philadelphia

Inception: 1937

Architects: The Ballinger Company

Architectural style: Streamline Moderne

Floors above the ground: 7

Floors below the ground: 1

Made from material: Indiana limestone, Milford granite

GPS coordinates: 39.95064,-75.15572

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:09