hometown christmas

 

Like most small town county seats, the main street of Tahoka divides around the court house square.  In bright letters, visitors and residents are greeted with "Merry Christmas" spelled on the roof of the 1916 court house.   Texas has 254 counties with more historical court houses than any other state; there are 234 court houses over 50 years old.  The Tahoka building is in need of renovation but the original paint and gilt trim remains in the unused third floor court room.  With a guide, one might visit the jail and the vault. The jail  As one leaves the square, the south façade has "Happy New Year" as the departing wish.  Patriotic pride and Christmas spirit abound in Tahoka. 

 

Lynn County Court House

Tahoka, Texas

12.21.2014

the facilities

 

When the Lynn County Court House was built in 1916, jail cells were constructed on the third floor.  Modern amenities included plumbing, but no privacy.  The jail was handily connected via a hallway to the courtroom.  Upon hearing the jailbreak story, and if one looks closely, a blood stain may be seen on the marble wall.  During a jail escape in 1936, a prisoner wrested a gun from the deputy and fatally shot him.  The escapee was soon caught several miles away but the event is part of Lynn County history.  If you're in Tahoka, visit this building on the National Register of Historical Places and ask for a tour.

 

Lynn County Court House

Tahoka, Texas

3.17.2009