Like a Shiny New Penny: Robertson County Courthouse Gets a Historic Roof Restoration
ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE: (Smokey Barn News) – The Robertson County Courthouse, located at the corner of 5th Avenue and Main Street in Springfield, Tennessee, has stood as a central landmark since its original construction in 1879. Initially designed with red brick architecture, this historic building underwent significant expansion in 1929–30, adding the north and south wings along with its iconic central clock tower. These updates, crafted by Nashville architects Edward E. Dougherty and Thomas W. Gardner, further enhanced its Victorian style. In 1978, the courthouse earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its historical and architectural importance.
As you might imagine, the years have taken their toll on the old structure. The courthouse underwent some fairly significant restoration work in 2006, but water leaks and other problems made it necessary to implement rather extensive upgrades and repairs to the building’s roof and internal designs. MORE
On the outside, JRC, a company renowned for its craftsmanship, undertook the monumental task of upgrading the courthouse’s roof while preserving its historic character. According to Noah White, a marketing specialist for JRC, the project included the installation of over 4,600 square feet of copper standing seam roofing and trim, weighing more than 7,000 pounds. Beneath the iconic clock tower, the courthouse wings received approximately 10,000 square feet of 90-mil EPDM roofing for enhanced durability.
A standout feature of the restoration was the clock tower. JRC fitted 1,285 copper shingles to the existing wood deck, blending quality craftsmanship with historical preservation. The spindles and other exterior details also received expert attention, with pressure washing, tuckpointing, and refreshed paint bringing vibrancy back to this historic landmark.
Thanks to this careful restoration, the Robertson County Courthouse continues to stand as a testament to the county’s rich history and bright future. For more history on the Robertson County Courthouse, former Robertson County Mayor Howard Bradley offers an interesting historical tour. Below that we have added a look inside the clock tower.
