Pulaski Courthouse Square

The current courthouse, completed in 1909, is the fifth to sit at this location. A courthouse has sat at this location since 1811, with two of the five courthouses succumbing to fire. The interior of the current courthouse features lovely details and an operational bell in the cupola.

The surrounding commercial district is comprised of buildings dating from the 1860s to the 1930s, exhibiting a range of architectural styles.

(see below for additional information)

In 1809, following the 1806 cession of Cherokee lands north of the Tennessee River to the United States government, the General Assembly appointed five commissioners to select a site for the seat of newly formed Giles County. The act required that the site be on Richland Creek and near the center of the county. The commissioners surveyed the land of what is now Pulaski and divided it for auction. By 1810, a log courthouse stood at the center of the town square.

The second courthouse was a log building covered with wide boards which burned in 1814.

The third courthouse was of Federal style, completed around 1815. It was razed in 1850 and the fourth courthouse was completed in 1852.

The fourth courthouse, completed in 1852, survived the Civil War and is pictured in this entry. It burned in 1907.

The fifth and current courthouse was completed in 1908.

Giles County Historical Society