Ellis County History

Ellis County's first courthouse was built in 1850.

The second courthouse was constructed in 1854.

The third courthouse was finished in 1873.

The fourth and final courthouse was completed in 1897.  I had never before noticed that each side of the courthouse is guarded by one of these sphinx or is it a gargoyle?  They are positioned on each side at the very top of the structure where they can observe all who approach the square.

Here is a picture of what paid for such an elaborate structure.  Until 1920 Ellis County produced more cotton than any other county in the state.