Built in 1910 - Listed on the National Historic Register

The Circuit Court of Shelby County is housed in the County Courthouse, located at 140 Adams Avenue. The beautiful building occupies an entire city block in the heart of downtown Memphis. The Neo-classical Revival-style structure was designed by James Gamble Rodgers, in 1905, who, at that time, was one of the nations leading architects. Upon completion of the building, a formal dedication ceremony was held January 1, 1910.
Tennessee blue limestone was selected by Mr. Rodgers for the exterior of the building. On the southeast and southwest interior corners, you will find beautiful curved marble staircases with mahogany banisters and spindles trimmed in gold leaf. The facade is adorned by six massive marblesculptures: Authority, Justice, Liberty, Peace, Prosperity and Wisdom. The immense statues were cut from single blocks of Tennessee white marble. The welcoming front verandah, facing Adams, is graced with fourteen Ionic columns with unfluted shafts. This area is well-utilized by visitors to the courthouse during the cooler months of the year.
The interior of this marvelous building abounds with elegance - from the mahogany wood used in the courtrooms and offices to the beautifully veined marble used for flooring and walls. No detail was left untouched - right down to the brass doorknobs adorned with the Shelby County seal. One of the most beautiful areas in the building is the law library, located on the third floor, Room 315. Elements, replicated from those found in the corridor stairways, were added to the library's mezzanine stairway. Twelve gold-trimmed columns, with Ionic capitals, line its center aisle. Honduras mahogany also can be found in this quiet retreat. Housed within the library is the Andrew O. Holmes Reading Room.This room is a favorite of many local attorneys. Mahogany is prevalent in this luxurious area as wall paneling, chairs and tables. Upholstered pieces are also incorporated in this room for the comfort of its many visitors.
An original brass spittoon from the early 1900's can be found in this oasis at the Courthouse. Probate (Room 124), General Sessions Civil (Room 110), Chancery (Room 308) and Circuit (Room 324) are housed within the building. Throughout its stellar history, the stately building has had many famous people walk its corridors.
Most recently, the family of slain civil rights activist, Martin Luther King, Jr., could be seen anxiously awaiting the outcome of their trial. This courthouse also has a history in Hollywood, as well. The timeless elegance of the building can be seen in films such as Silence of the Lambs, The Firm, The Client, and The People vs. Larry Flint and others.The Shelby County courthouse, rich in stature and history, continues to be a regal symbol of justice for the citizens of Shelby County.

Source: The Shelby County Courthouse - Renovation and Restoration- 1980 - 1992 by Janette C. Russell