James R. Browning United States Court of Appeals Building

The James R. Browning United States Court of Appeals Building is a seven-story federal courthouse made of granite with classical columns and intricate ornamentation. The structure was built with a steel frame and contains multiple courtrooms along with ornate decorative details throughout its interior spaces.

Construction began in 1897 and was completed in 1905, creating a new courthouse for the region. The building proved its strength when it survived the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and continued to operate while the city recovered.

The building displays Italian marble, detailed mosaics, and colored glass windows that reflect early 20th-century American institutional design. These materials and decorative details shape how the interior spaces feel when you walk through them.

The building is located near public transit and has parking available in the surrounding area for visitors. Expect security screening at the entrance since this is an active courthouse with regular operations.

After the 1989 earthquake, the building underwent a major upgrade that made it more resistant to seismic activity. This work successfully preserved its historical architectural features while making the structure safer for the future.

Location: Mid-Market

Location: South of Market

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

GPS coordinates: 37.78000,-122.40972

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:48