James R. Browning United States Court of Appeals Building, Federal courthouse in Mid-Market, United States

The James R. Browning United States Court of Appeals Building is a three-story steel-framed courthouse clad in white Sierra granite, with a fourth attic level set back behind the cornice and balustrade. Its rusticated ground level holds round-arched windows, and fluted pilasters stand between the rectangular windows above; a pedimented entrance bay faces Seventh Street. A 1933 four-story addition by George Kelham encloses the former U-shaped courtyard.

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 bronze entry lanterns replicate torch-holders Niccolo Grosso designed in 1489 for Florentine banker Filippo Strozzi's home. Six lunette mosaics by Earl Stetson Crawford, chosen in an open competition, show "Columbia's progress in the arts and sciences" and "Law and her attributes". The courtyard once had red, white and blue glazed brick and one hundred pink-tongued lion heads.

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.