Conway County Courthouse

Built in 1930 and designed by architect Frank W. Gibb, the Conway County Courthouse is primarily significant for its architecture as it combines the Classical Revival and Art Deco styles. As such, it represents the popularity and influence of the Art Deco style at the time. The courthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.

Morrilton became the seat of Conway County in 1883 thanks to the arrival of railroads in 1875. When the first courthouse was built is unclear but presumably around that time. A fire destroyed it in 1927 and plans for building the current courthouse got underway. Gibb, who was based in Little Rock, was hired by 1929 and construction got underway that year. The new courthouse opened on March 10, 1930 to a large celebration that attracted 5,000 people.

It was built of red brick with terra cotta and white concrete trim. The front facade of the building features four, two-story round columns, and brick pilasters (columns) are located on all four sides of the building. The overall appearance of the courthouse is flattened, which reflects the influence of the Art Deco style. The building is one of Gibb's last. He died in 1932.

Story, Kenneth. "Conway County Courthouse." National Park Service - National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form. November 13, 1989. https://www.arkansasheritage.com/docs/default-source/national-registry/CN0025-pdf.