Constructed 1901-1902, the McLennan County Courthouse was designed by J. Riely Gordon. The building was erected by Tom Lovell, contractor, and construction was supervised by W.C. Dodson, architect. Built during prosperous times, it is the fourth courthouse in the county's history.
The courthouse is on a cruciform plan with corridors extending lengthwise through each arm. On the upper two levels, several courtrooms are located at ends of the cross. A rotunda extends up through the crossing.
The exterior is distinguished by Beaux Arts Classical style on a monumental scale. The concept of composition of the building with its wings, dome and dominant entrance is similar to that employed in the Texas Capitol.