Built in 1877 at a cost of $45,201, the Davis County courthouse is an outstanding example of Second Empire architecture, distinguished by its mansard roof and dormer windows. Measuring about 97 by 87 feet, it has red brick walls covered by sandstone veneer, and its belfry tower, topped by a statue of the Lady of Justice, brings the total height to more than 123 feet. The tower contains the original 1876 Seth Thomas clock and a large 1878 Kimberley bell that also served as a fire alarm in the early days. Designed by Indiana architect T.J. Tolan and considered at the time highly successful in this courthouse style, the building has remained in continuous use since its construction. Its large courtroom still seats nearly 300 people on the original walnut chairs and benches, while the basement retains the cells that served as the county and city jails until 1973. A fence once enclosed the courtyard square in the same style still seen around the jailhouse windows. In the early 1930's, one especially unusual visitor was a human fly who successfully climbed the exterior walls. The courthouse became a familiar symbol of Davis County and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.