Historic Henderson County Courthouse
A stunning 1905 Classical Revival courthouse by Richard Sharp Smith, serving as the historic heart of Henderson County.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Less crowded, offices open
Historic Henderson County Courthouse
Best Time
Less crowded, offices open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 1905 Classical Revival courthouse by Richard Sharp Smith, serving as the historic heart of Henderson County.
"This beautiful Classical Revival structure is the Henderson County Courthouse and it was completed in 1905."
📞 Call Ahead
Some visitors report difficulty reaching offices by phone. Plan to visit in person if possible for urgent matters.
🚗 Parking Available
Street parking and an adjacent lot make visiting convenient.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Classical Revival Architecture
Exterior
Admire the stunning 1905 Classical Revival design by Richard Sharp Smith, featuring Corinthian columns and brickwork.
Historic County Seat
Grounds
Explore the grounds of Hendersonville, the county seat since 1847, rich in North Carolina history.
Architectural Details
Interior (if accessible)
Note the interior's gray granite floors and brick wainscotting, showcasing the building's enduring craftsmanship.
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Planning Your Visit
Courthouse Hours & Access
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Best Times
Insider Tips
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Courthouse wedding recommendations
📞 Call Ahead
Some visitors report difficulty reaching offices by phone. Plan to visit in person if possible for urgent matters.
🚗 Parking Available
Street parking and an adjacent lot make visiting convenient.
Elopement/Officiant question
🏛️ Admire the Exterior
Even if offices are closed, the building's architecture is a sight to behold.
📅 Check Office Hours
It's a working courthouse; hours may vary. Confirm before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
📞 Call Ahead
Some visitors report difficulty reaching offices by phone. Plan to visit in person if possible for urgent matters.
🚗 Parking Available
Street parking and an adjacent lot make visiting convenient.
🏛️ Admire the Exterior
Even if offices are closed, the building's architecture is a sight to behold.
📅 Check Office Hours
It's a working courthouse; hours may vary. Confirm before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Historic Henderson County Courthouse is praised for its beautiful Classical Revival architecture and historical significance. Visitors appreciate the convenient parking and the building's impressive design. However, some reviewers have expressed frustration with the difficulty of reaching county offices by phone and occasional issues with legal proceedings.
"This beautiful Classical Revival structure is the Henderson County Courthouse and it was completed in 1905. It was designed by Richard Sharp Smith, the former resident of the Biltmore Estate. Smith is also responsible for the Madison County Courthouse (Marshall), the Jackson County Courthouse (Sylva) and the Swain County Courthouse (Bryson City) among others. The building is three stories of brick with Corinthian columns. Interior is gray granite floors and brick wainscotting. It's impressive.
Henderson County was established in 1838 from the southern portion of Buncombe County and is named for Leonard Henderson who was Chief Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court (1839-1833). Hendersonville has been the county seat since 1847.
There is street parking nearby and a parking lot adjacent. On a quiet weekend morning, there wasn't much going on so I had plenty of time to walk the grounds and peek through the front doorway. I'd love a tour but not today."
Bruce InCharlotte
"I’m giving them 5 stars because I made a friends bond of 100 dollars and he went to court and the clerk of courts went out of there way to get me my 100 dollars back when it got mailed to the wrong address because I
Moved shortly after pauing my friends bond thanks for all the extra effort !!!!!!!"
timothy rice
"No one answers the phone in these offices . I have a divorce procedure and have tried extension 3 for four hours and no one answers the phone. I also tried the Superior Courts extension, SAME THING! I also tried the traffic court extension, no answer there either. I do not understand why, on a regular business day, Wednesday, no one can be troubled to answer the phone. Great use of tax dollars!"
Justin Arkin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The courthouse is located in Hendersonville, NC. Street parking is available nearby, and there's also an adjacent parking lot for visitors.
Information on public transportation routes serving the Henderson County Courthouse can typically be found on the Henderson County government website or local transit authority pages.
Street parking is available around the courthouse, and a dedicated parking lot is adjacent to the building, offering convenient options for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required to view the exterior of the Historic Henderson County Courthouse. Access to specific offices or public areas inside may depend on business hours and county regulations.
As a working government building, the courthouse operates during standard business hours, typically Monday through Friday. It's recommended to check the official Henderson County website for the most current hours of operation for specific departments.
While tours are not always formally scheduled, visitors can sometimes peek through the front doorway. For specific access or to inquire about potential tours, contacting the county administration office is advisable.
There is no admission fee to visit the grounds or admire the exterior of the Historic Henderson County Courthouse.
If you need to visit a specific office, it's best to call ahead to confirm their hours and any necessary procedures. Some visitors have noted difficulty reaching offices by phone.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the impressive Classical Revival architecture, designed by Richard Sharp Smith, featuring Corinthian columns and brickwork. The grounds also offer a glimpse into the history of Hendersonville as the county seat.
As a historic building, accessibility may vary. It's recommended to contact the Henderson County administration directly to inquire about specific accessibility features or accommodations within the courthouse.
Completed in 1905, it's a significant example of Classical Revival architecture. Henderson County itself was established in 1838 and Hendersonville has been the county seat since 1847.
Photography of the exterior is generally permitted. If you plan to photograph inside or for commercial purposes, it's wise to check with county officials regarding any specific policies.
The courthouse is a beautiful example of the Classical Revival architectural style, designed by Richard Sharp Smith, who also worked on the Biltmore Estate.
🎫 ⚖️ Legal & Administrative
Visitors have reported issues with phone responsiveness. It's best to visit in person or check the official Henderson County website for contact information and alternative communication methods.
The courthouse houses various county administrative offices, including Clerk of Courts, Superior Courts, and traffic court.
The Clerk of Courts office handles bond postings. Be prepared with necessary information and documentation. One reviewer had a positive experience with their bond being returned.
Divorce proceedings are handled through the court system. For specific guidance, it's advisable to consult with legal counsel or visit the Clerk of Superior Court's office.
If your appointed lawyer fails to appear, document the incident and contact the court administration or the relevant bar association to report the issue.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🏛️ History Buffs
Consider researching Richard Sharp Smith's other works in North Carolina to draw comparisons. While interior tours may not be readily available, the exterior details and the building's historical significance offer a rich experience for anyone interested in local history and architecture.
⚖️ Legal Professionals & Researchers
Be aware that some visitors have noted challenges in reaching specific offices by phone, so planning an in-person visit during business hours might be more effective for inquiries. The courthouse's architecture also offers a study in the design of public administrative spaces from the early 20th century.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
Smith's influence can also be seen in other North Carolina courthouses he designed, such as those in Madison, Jackson, and Swain counties, highlighting a consistent vision for public architecture in the region. Visiting the Henderson County Courthouse offers a chance to appreciate this historical architectural style and understand its place within the broader context of American public building design. The building stands as a testament to the era's architectural trends and the skill of its designer.
Historical Context of Henderson County
The establishment of the county and the subsequent construction of its courthouse reflect the growing population and administrative needs of the area. The courthouse itself, completed in 1905, represents a significant investment in the county's infrastructure and its commitment to providing essential governmental services. Its presence anchors Hendersonville as a key center in the region, preserving the historical narrative of local governance and community development.
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