Stark County Courthouse

Introduction

Text-to-speech Audio

The Stark County Courthouse has served as the seat of county government since its construction in 1937. Designed by architect William F. Kurke, it is a fine example of Art Deco architecture. It is also historically significant for its connection to the Public Works Administration, which was one of the federal agencies established in the 1930s to provide Americans jobs and support the economy during the Great Depression. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

Images

The Stark County Courthouse was built in 1937 and is an excellent example of Art Deco architecture.

Backstory and Context

Text-to-speech Audio

Like in every county in the country, the Stark County Courthouse is essential in providing important political and judicial services to county residents. These functions hold even greater importance given that North Dakota is a fairly rural state. The courthouse's Art Deco design—one of only two courthouses in the state designed in this style—contributes to this is well as it provides a sense of grandeur to the community. It cost over $200,000 to build, which was nearly half of what the town spent in its building boom during the 1930s. Its construction provided a big boost to the community and residents were willing to help pay for it in bonds.

Sources

"Stark County Courthouse." National Park Service - National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form. November 25, 1985. https://npgallery.nps.gov/NRHP/GetAsset/NRHP/85002991_text.

Image Sources(Click to expand)

Wikimedia Commons: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Stark_County_Courthouse,_Dickinson.jpg

Additional Information

National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form: Stark County Courthouse