Greene County Courthouse

Greene County Courthouse is a Beaux-Arts style courthouse built from Bedford stone with matching north and south facades topped by Ionic porticos. A central rotunda inside features a decorative mosaic tile floor displaying the county seal.

The courthouse was completed in 1918 as the third such building in Greene County, replacing an earlier structure from 1870. Its construction marked a major upgrade in the county's judicial and administrative facilities.

Inside, William Peaco painted murals across the dome showing scenes of buffalo hunting, emigration, pioneering, and modern farming. These artworks reflect the region's connection to frontier life and agricultural traditions.

The building serves as the center for county government operations and is located in downtown Jefferson where visitors can view the public spaces. Access to active courtrooms may be restricted during judicial proceedings.

The Mahanay Tower was added in 1966 as an extension rising roughly 37 meters (120 feet) above the courthouse. The tower contains bells that chime every quarter hour, creating an unexpected timekeeping feature for the building.

Location: Iowa

Architects: Proudfoot & Bird

Architectural style: Beaux-Arts

GPS coordinates: 42.01583,-94.37389

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:47