Ventura County Courthouse

The county built this courthouse in 1912 and 1913 to Albert C. Martin's design, with twenty-four whimsical terra-cotta faces of Franciscan friars between its first- and second-floor windows, and gave it up in 1969, when it was judged an earthquake risk. The city bought it, strengthened it and has used it as City Hall since the 1970s; the old courtroom is the council chamber. The county's first offices had been in a saloon on Main Street. The bronze dates it 1912; it was dedicated on July 4, 1913.

What the plaque says

Old County Court House This imposing building was designed by Albert C. Martin and built in 1912 as the Ventura County court house. It is an outstanding example of neo-classic architecture, considered the proper style for public buildings of the early 20th century. The court house was purchased by the City of San Buenaventura in 1971 for use as the City Hall. California Registered Historical Landmark No. 847 Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the City of San Buenaventura, December 29, 1973.

Where it stands

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