Birch Bayh Federal Building and United States Courthouse

The Birch Bayh Federal Building is a limestone courthouse in Indianapolis with eleven bays and three stories featuring Ionic columns at its entrance pavilions. These pavilions display allegorical sculptures representing Industry, Science, Agriculture, and Literature.

Construction took place from 1902 to 1905 under the Tarsney Act, legislation that encouraged the use of American building materials. The project required significant investment and originally served as both a federal court and post office.

The building is named after politician Birch Bayh and contains murals created during the Depression era that depict how mail and transportation systems developed in Indianapolis. These artworks were made through a government program that supported artists during economic hardship.

The building is located downtown and open during standard business hours on weekdays. Visitors should expect security screening and plan for reduced activity on weekends.

The interior preserves original mosaic tile ceilings, marble staircases, and courtrooms with colored marble walls and gilded details. These elements from its 1905 construction show the craftsmanship invested in early American government buildings.