Sarasota's Historic Courthouse
Original Splendor: Preserving Sarasota's Historic Courthouse
On July 1, 2021, Sarasota County celebrated its 100th anniversary with the release of the documentary film Original Splendor, which highlights the history of the county courthouse and the restoration work that has been done to preserve this community landmark. Whether you are simply curious about the Historic Courthouse in downtown Sarasota or have a more serious interest in local history and architecture, including the people, styles, and themes that marked a significant era in Sarasota, you will enjoy the film and the accompanying narrative below.
Origin of Sarasota County & the Historic Courthouse
Originally a part of Manatee County, citizens throughout the region that is now Sarasota were dissatisfied by inadequate representation in Tallahassee and a lack of quality infrastructure. Following a series of public hearings during the summer of 1920, Sarasota County was established and, in 1921, began its journey as a newly formed district.
In 1925, the county commissioners hired renowned architect Dwight James Baum to design the courthouse. During the 1920s, architecture was aspirational, characterized by a range of styles prevalent, including Art Deco and Neoclassicism, as well as international influences from abroad. The timing of the Florida land boom and the roaring ‘20s made a perfect combination for bringing the Mediterranean Revival Style of architecture to the Sarasota community. With a prominent reputation as a visionary in the New York architecture scene, Baum was an ideal choice to elevate Sarasota’s architectural profile.
Baum had first visited Sarasota in 1922, capturing the attention of John and Mable Ringling, who hired him to design their splendid home, Ca’ d’Zan. The artist was then commissioned to design several other buildings, including the Sarasota Times building, the El Verona apartments and hotel, and the First Presbyterian Church, all of which are cherished landmarks in our community. Baum’s famed designs helped establish Sarasota’s global reputation as a cultural tourist destination.
The Sarasota County Courthouse, now known as the Historic Courthouse, was majestic for its day. From the intricate ironwork styled by Samuel Yellin to the terrazzo floors, wide rotundas, marble walls, and intricately designed tower, the Historic Courthouse is an exceptional representation of the Mediterranean Revival Style.
Climate Challenges, Community Growth Signal Change for the Courthouse
The Florida climate took a toll on the county courthouse. The building deteriorated over time due to decades of exposure to rain, intense sunlight, high winds, and humidity. The tower, in particular, required major restructuring to ensure its long-term integrity. In addition, the Sarasota community's growth necessitated the expansion of county entities, such as the Sheriff’s Office, county jail, judiciary, and other government agencies, which eventually vacated the county courthouse in favor of other facilities. These changes created the opportunity to renovate what had become known as the Historic Courthouse (to differentiate it from the new judicial operations facilities). The space was remodeled to accommodate the Clerk of the Circuit Court—the only remaining office occupying the building today.
History of the Clerk
Renovations Return the Courthouse to Its Original Splendor
From the first renovation in 1955 to the most recent in 2017, architects, designers, artisans, and craftsmen have collaborated to preserve and restore this courthouse to its original splendor. The documentary Original Splendor depicts the stories, lives, hard work, and grit that have gone into these vital renovations and the preservation of the building’s history. All of this was made possible because of the generous financial support from the county commission and private donors.
Original Splendor Documentary Credits
There are numerous contributors to the Original Splendor documentary who shared their stories and breathed life into this incredible project, including Karen E. Rushing, Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller, Judge Kimberly Bonner, Judge Stephen Dakan, Dan Bailey Jr. with Williams-Parker, Glenn Darling with Hall Darling Design Studio, historian, Jeff LaHurd and Sheriff Kurt A. Hoffman. And special recognition goes to TriForce Pictures for their creative talent in producing Original Splendor.