Welcome to the Second Pinal County Courthouse, a majestic testament to the rich history and architectural grandeur of Florence, Arizona. Nestled at the intersection of Pinal and 12th streets, this historic three-story redbrick courthouse has stood as a beacon of justice and civic pride since its completion in 1891. Designed by the renowned Arizona architect James M. Creighton in the Late Victorian Revival style, the courthouse is not just a building; it is a symbol of the optimism and aspirations of a community that believed in a prosperous future through mining and agriculture.
Florence, Arizona, was established in 1866, carved out from land patented by Levi Ruggles, who meticulously planned the town's layout. As the fifth oldest settlement in the state, Florence quickly became a bustling hub of activity with the establishment of a post office in 1868 and a general store in 1869. The town's significance grew with the formation of Pinal County in 1875, with Florence as its county seat. The first Pinal County Courthouse, constructed in 1877, now forms part of the McFarland State Historic Park, a stone's throw from the current courthouse.
On March 1, 1890, the Pinal County Board of Supervisors commissioned architect J.M. Creighton to design a new courthouse that would embody the county's aspirations. The construction contracts, awarded to A.J. Doran and T.A. Adams, amounted to an extravagant $34,765. The courthouse, completed on February 2, 1891, is a stunning example of American-Victorian architecture, boasting 15,000 square feet of space. The building housed the offices of the Supervisors, the Recorder, the Treasurer, and the Assessor, with the Sheriff's Office and jail occupying the rear of the first floor.
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One of the most distinctive features of the courthouse is its ornate clock tower. However, due to budget constraints, the clockworks were never installed. Instead, a clock was painted on the tower, with the hands permanently set at 11:44. This unique feature has become a quirky symbol of the courthouse, adding to its charm and historical intrigue.
The Second Pinal County Courthouse has been the site of numerous notable trials and events. In 1899, the infamous stagecoach robber Pearl Hart was jailed here. The courthouse also witnessed the notorious Duel at the Tunnel Saloon in 1888, where ex-sheriff Pete Gabriel and his ex-deputy Joe Phy engaged in a deadly gunfight. Over the years, the courthouse has seen its fair share of drama, from sanity hearings to high-profile murder trials, making it a central player in the legal history of Pinal County.
As Pinal County grew, so did the courthouse. In 1917, the first two-story additions were made to the northwest and southwest corners of the building, transforming its cruciform shape into a T. Further expansions followed, including single-story additions in 1933, 1975, and 1982, bringing the total area to 24,000 square feet. Despite these additions, the courthouse retained its historic charm and architectural integrity.
By the late 1990s, the courthouse had fallen into disrepair, prompting the Pinal County Board of Supervisors to research restoration costs. A building assessment report estimated the cost of full repairs at $3 million. In 2002, a construction grant from the State Park Heritage Fund, along with matching county funds, initiated the first phase of restoration. The multi-phased rehabilitation project, completed in January 2011, included the restoration of the clock tower, roof structure, main entrance porch, and various exterior elements, costing $1.3 million.
In 2011, the Pinal County Board of Supervisors approved further repairs, culminating in a comprehensive renovation project that included asbestos removal and electrical upgrades. The total renovation costs amounted to $6 million. Today, the courthouse serves as a functional space for county offices and public meetings. The main floor, once the jail, now hosts the meeting room for the Board of Supervisors, while the second floor houses their offices and a large room for special events and community gatherings.
The Second Pinal County Courthouse is more than just a historic building; it is a living monument to the resilience and growth of Pinal County. Its walls echo with the stories of the past, from dramatic trials to community milestones. As you explore this magnificent structure, you will not only witness the grandeur of its architecture but also feel the pulse of history that courses through its halls. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a curious traveler, the Second Pinal County Courthouse promises a captivating journey through time.
So, take a step back into the late 19th century and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Florence’s history. The Second Pinal County Courthouse stands as a proud testament to the enduring spirit of a community that has weathered the sands of time and continues to thrive.
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