Facts

📍 Region: South Texas Plains / City: Bandera

🗓️ Year Built: 1891

🧑‍🎨 Architect: Benjamin Franklin Trester

🏛️ Architectural Style: Renaissance Revival

💎 Unique Details: It is a beautifully preserved example of Romanesque Revival architecture, featuring native red sandstone, arched windows, and a commanding clock tower that anchors the town square. 

Why See It?

Bandera, known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” takes great pride in its rich frontier and Western history, and the courthouse stands as a symbol of that legacy. Surrounded by historic buildings, museums, and Western-themed attractions, the courthouse is more than just a seat of justice—it’s a reflection of Bandera’s enduring spirit and deep respect for its past.

Photo Gallery

Cowboy monument at cowboy capital of the world in Texas, honoring renowned cowboys and rodeo champions, with historic plaques and a statue of a cowboy on horseback, symbolizing cowboy culture and heritage.
Texas State Historical Survey Committee official historical medallion on a brick wall.

Nearby Highlights

Bandera Visitor’s Center – Helpful staff provides info. on events and things to do based on your interests, and you can pick up a free walking tour map of other historic buildings in the area. These include: Old Bandera Jail – Built in 1881 (as of July 2025 presently under re-construction), this one-story cut-stone structure has a distinctly medieval appearance, Western Trail Heritage Park – Tribute to the great western cattle drives and cowboys, St. Stanislaus Catholic Church – Built in 1876 it is the second oldest Polish church in Texas, Old Jureczki House – A well preserved 1876 Polish Pioneer house.

Bandera City Park – A scenic riverside green space in downtown Bandera, nestled along the Medina River and offering fishing, swimming, and picnic areas.

Vintage stone building with rusted metal roof showcasing Kris Cross The Globe travel theme, historic architecture, and decorative outdoor art on a sunny day.
Historic stone church with steeple under blue sky with fluffy clouds, surrounded by greenery, showcasing classic architecture and local history.
Colorful church interior featuring stained glass windows, religious paintings, and ornate altar, illustrating a sacred space for prayer and worship. Perfect for spiritual travel and religious destinations.
Colorful rustic home with a large shade tree, wooden porch, and American flag, showcasing Texas-style architecture and charming vintage decor for a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Bronze statue of a cowboy on horseback beneath a large leafy tree at Kris Cross The Globe, showcasing Western heritage and outdoor cultural exhibits.
Texas historical markers about the cowboy culture and cattle trails.
Colorful concrete trail featuring Texas-themed map and historical markers at Kris Cross The Globe, showcasing travel and adventure inspiration related to western cattle trails and iconic Texas landmarks.

Bandera Murals – There are three large murals by Bill Stevens depicting Bandera’s history.

Colorful mural of a cowboy herding cattle across a river, surrounded by lush trees and rolling hills, showcasing outdoor adventure and western themes.
“Crossing the Medina”, by Bill Stevens

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