County courthouses in Texas are central to the state’s history and identity, showcasing diverse architectural styles and local significance. Mansfield Photography has visited and photographed many of these iconic structures, each reflecting a unique story of governance and community pride. From grand, ornate buildings to simpler designs, these courthouses serve as key landmarks. Here, we present all the towns we’ve visited with a county courthouse, highlighting the rich heritage and distinctive charm of each one.
Cisco, Texas – “Gateway to the West” and Birthplace of the Hilton Hotel Empire. Cisco, Texas, owes its name to the Houston and Texas Central Railway, which reached the area in 1878. The name “Cisco” is believed to have come from John J. Cisco, a railroad financier and vice president of the Texas Central Railroad….
Corsicana, Texas – A Timeless Appeal. Corsicana, Texas, was named by one of its early settlers, José Antonio Navarro, a significant figure in Texas history and one of the signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence. He named the town after the island of Corsica, which was his father’s birthplace. Navarro’s influence helped shape the…
Center, Texas – With A Unique Courthouse Unlike Any Other. Center, Texas, was settled in the 1840s, and founded in 1866, right after the Civil War, when settlers came looking for new opportunities in East Texas. Originally known as White Cottage, the town was later renamed to Center in 1866 to reflect its geographical location…
Gainesville, Texas – A Town Full of Character and History. Founded in 1850, Gainesville, Texas, began as a humble settlement along the banks of Elm Fork of the Trinity River in North Texas. The town was named after General Edmund Pendleton Gaines, a military officer who had served in the War of 1812 and was…
Mount Vernon, Texas – A Tall Tale with History and Tradition. Tucked away in the rolling landscapes of East Texas, Mount Vernon offers visitors a captivating blend of history, small-town charm, and scenic beauty. Though modest in size, this town boasts a rich heritage, picturesque downtown, and beautifully preserved landmarks that make it a quintessential…
The Great Raft – and the impact on Jefferson, Texas. Near Jefferson, the history of the Red River log jam, also known as the Great Raft, is a compelling chapter in the development of East Texas, particularly in relation to Jefferson, an inland port that played a critical role in the region’s economy. The Great…
Paris, Texas – A Lone Star City with European Flair. Though many may associate the name with France’s famed capital, the small town of Paris in north Texas has a unique charm all its own. With a rich history, resilient spirit, and even its own mini replica of the Eiffel Tower, this town seamlessly blends…
Weatherford, Texas – Exploring the Historic Downtown. Located just west of Fort Worth, Weatherford, Texas, has transformed from a frontier settlement into a thriving city with a population exceeding 30,000. Despite its modern growth, the city preserves its historic character, offering a glimpse into its storied past through landmarks, events, and architecture. A Name Rooted…
Lufkin, Texas – Murals, Markets, and Mayoral Hogs. Founded in 1882, Lufkin was named after Abraham P. Lufkin, a cotton merchant and a friend of Paul Bremond, the president of the Houston, East and West Texas Railway. The town’s location was no accident—it flourished as a crucial stop along the railroad, making it a hub…
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