Historic San Bernardino County Courthouse (+History)

One of the most well maintained buildings I photographed for my preservation efforts is the San Bernardino County Courthouse. In 1851, 400 Mormon colonists made their way through the Cajon Pass. Led by Amasa Mason, they aimed to purchase the San Bernardino valley. Before that though, for three months they made camp in the pass (at the current day Mormon Rocks). Once the deal was finalized they made their way into the valley and constructed a blockade where the courthouse currently lies. They believed a blockade was necessary to defend themselves against local natives. However, within a year of their arrival they ventured out of the confines of their fort to construct the city. In 1926 the current day court house would be completed and constructed atop the site of the Mormon blockade. Designed by architect Howard E. Jones, the project cost the city $700,000 ($12,500,000 with inflation).

Photographing the courthouse gave a glimpse into the city’s care for its infrastructure. Although I didn’t photograph the busy halls, I did get a beautiful shot of the stained glass. A reminder to everyone that anyone can enter the courthouse and roam its halls, just be mindful and respectful to the staff/ officers/ people within.

Picture 1 - Courthouse exterior

Picture 2 - Stained glass

Picture 3 - Courthouse upon completion (via SB Bicentennial

Picture 4 - Amasa Mason

Picture 5 - Fort depicted by artist Hazel C. Olsen