woodbury county courthouse

My wife and I have been married for 31 years and I have visited her family in Sioux City several times but was very surprised a few months ago when we had to go to the Courthouse which also houses the County offices. We had to obtain a death certificate of a relative and had planned to be in and out very quickly. But the building is fascinating and has quite a history from an architectural standpoint. It is a National Historic Landmark in the Prairie School style.From a distance the exterior is not particularly interesting but up close it is quite interesting. With its stained glass and terra cotta both inside and out as well as the exterior sculptures and murals it is well worth a detour if you are in the area.

A gem in the middle of Sioux City. A "Prairie School" architecture masterpiece that is still a functioning courthouse. Built in the years right after World War I, some of the murals commemorate the men and women that served and died during the conflict. A nice display of musical instruments and memorabilia from the American Legion Band, Monahan Post. Go upstairs and take a peek at the actual courtrooms too. The use of light, color and stone is amazing.

Unfriendly workers who make any interaction unpleasant. Granted, they work with A-holes all day, but you knew that when you took the job. Smile every once in a while!

THis is listed as a historical site, however there is minimal information inside, its still a functioning facility, but it needs a very thurough cleaning and maybe some information posted about the facilities. I know they do tours for schools, but I have been there for other reasons, and tho it has history, theres not much to the significance of why, other than its old and has been here awhile.

From the outside, this courthouse is attractive. The inside will take your breath away. Beatiful stained glass, including a massive rotunda, provides beautiful daytime lighting. The light fixtures, though not necessary on a sunny day, are gorgeous examples of early 20th century glass work. The stonework, the woodwork, the murals--everything fits the design of this Prairie School masterpiece.