Barnstable County Courthouse

The Barnstable County Courthouse is a Greek Revival-style court building in Barnstable, Massachusetts, distinguished by classical columns, large windows, and a prominent pediment on its front facade. The structure continues to serve as an active location for court proceedings and administrative functions in the county.

Alexander Parris designed this courthouse in the early 1800s, selecting classical architectural elements that represented American democratic values of the time. The building later earned recognition on the National Register of Historic Places, acknowledging its importance to the region's legal and civic history.

The classical columns and symmetrical design reflect how Americans in the early 1800s expressed their belief in democratic institutions through architecture. These visual elements still communicate authority and civic purpose to anyone who enters the building today.

The building remains an active courthouse, so some areas may not be open to the public and certain rooms may have restricted access. Before visiting, check what portions of the building you can view and whether there are any special security procedures to follow.

The construction team of Jacob and Abner Taylor worked alongside architect Alexander Parris, and their collaborative efforts resulted in a building of such high quality that it was recognized for listing on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981. This teamwork between designer and skilled builders created an enduring structure that still stands as a testament to their craft.

Location: Barnstable

Architects: Alexander Parris

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

Website: http://mass.gov/courts/courtsandjudges/courts/barnsupmain.html

GPS coordinates: 41.70139,-70.30472

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:46