At the Heart of Athens Since 1913
The Henderson County Courthouse has occupied its place on the Athens square for more than a century, but the story of this familiar landmark reaches much farther back.
Henderson County was created in 1846, and Athens became the county seat in 1850. Several courthouses served the growing community before construction began on the present courthouse in 1913.
Designed by L. L. Thurmon & Company of Dallas, the Classical Revival courthouse was accepted by Henderson County in January 1914. Its distinctive design includes a central dome, projecting wings, stately columned entrances, marble stairways and other architectural details that have helped make it one of Athens' most recognizable landmarks.
More than a government building, the courthouse and its square became a gathering place — a backdrop for community celebrations, music, memorials and generations of everyday Athens life.
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A Piece of Athens History to Keep
The inaugural Heart of Athens™ Heritage Ornament was created to preserve a familiar piece of home — the Henderson County Courthouse and the community history it represents.
Introduced in 2026, the first design in the Athens Heritage Collection transforms this beloved Athens landmark into a keepsake intended to be brought out year after year, shared between generations and remembered as the beginning of a new local tradition.
More than a Christmas ornament, it is a small piece of Athens history — a tribute to the courthouse, the square and the generations of memories centered around them.