Washoe County Courthouse

Washoe County Courthouse is a neoclassical courthouse in Reno with grand stone columns and detailed facades typical of early 20th-century government buildings in Nevada. The structure combines traditional architectural elements with solid construction that reflects its role as the judicial center for the county.

The courthouse was completed in 1910 during a period when Nevada's liberal divorce laws drew people from across the country seeking quick settlements. This era made it a significant center in the region's legal landscape.

The courthouse was designed by Frederic J. DeLongchamps as his first independent project, establishing an architectural language for civic buildings across Nevada. Inside, the spaces reflect the formal dignity expected of courts during that era.

The building sits in downtown Reno and is easy to reach on foot, with clear visibility from the street. Keep in mind this is an active courthouse, so some areas may be restricted or require security screening.

The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986 because of its connection to Nevada's divorce industry in the early 1900s. It stands as a symbol of a unique chapter in American legal history that drew thousands of people from across the country.

Location: Nevada

Architects: Frederic Joseph DeLongchamps

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

GPS coordinates: 39.52360,-119.80700

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:43