Des Moines County Court House

BURLINGTON, IOWA · 1940

A Public Works Administration–era courthouse completed in 1940, representing the fourth purpose-built structure to serve Des Moines County’s judicial and administrative functions.

At a glance

This Iowa courthouse exemplifies the PWA-Era architectural tradition that shaped county infrastructure across the United States during the New Deal period. Built in 1940, it stands as Burlington’s civic hub and a testament to mid-20th-century institutional design.

History

The Des Moines County Court House is the fourth structure to house court functions and county administration in Burlington. Its construction in 1940 coincided with the Public Works Administration’s support for civic buildings across America. The courthouse was recognized for its historical significance when listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003, as part of the PWA-Era County Courthouses of Iowa Multiple Properties Submission.

What you see

The building reflects the design principles of Depression-era public architecture, when federal programs funded functional yet dignified civic structures intended to serve their communities for generations.

Cultural significance

The courthouse represents an important chapter in American institutional architecture. Its inclusion in the National Register acknowledges the collective value of PWA-Era county courthouses across Iowa—buildings that shaped the civic landscape during economic recovery and modernization.

Key facts

Built: 1940
Location: Burlington, Iowa, United States
Coordinates: 40.812, −91.10105
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places: 2003
Historic designation: PWA-Era County Courthouses of Iowa Multiple Properties Submission

Practical information & getting there

The courthouse is located in downtown Burlington, Iowa. As an active government building, visiting hours and access may be restricted; contact Des Moines County administration for current visitor information.

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