The Old Red Museum, also known as the Old Red, is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. It was built of red sandstone interspersed with rusticated marble, which is why the institution bears this name. There used to be a court here, and then a history museum was opened in this place.
History of creation
The house was built in 1892 in the Richardsonian-Romanesque architectural style, the project with square and spiral towers was designed by architect Max Orlopp Jr. The unusual appearance has always attracted the attention of society. Initially, the Dallas District Court worked here. In 1966, the court moved to a building that was built nearby.
The red sandstone structure was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. This is one of the most recognizable places in the city. In 2005-2007, a large-scale restoration took place, and this allowed the museum to open. Both residents of Texas and tourists from all over the world come to the Old Red Museum to see America.
Architecture features
The roof of the world-famous landmark is decorated with 4 figures of wyverns, a mythical creature representing a type of dragon. It is believed that 2 images are original, and 2 more are copies of them. The clock tower is about 27 meters high, but it is a replica created during the reconstruction. It is known that the structure was demolished in 1919, but not everyone remembers this.
The main staircase in the Old Red Museum was restored, based on the original appearance, which was in 1892. Such a staircase seemed impractical, so it was removed in the 19th century. Over time, it was returned to its place, which gives the Old Red Museum a refined look. Earlier, more than 100 stained glass lunette windows were installed on the upper floors. They were removed in 1967, and by now 2 original stained glass windows have been restored. They refract light and give the object an unusual appearance.
Short description
On the 4th floor, you can see the restored courtroom with the judge's pulpit, the jury bench, and the public gallery. The museum's collection covers the history of Dallas at various times. There is even information about the land where the city is located in prehistoric times.
Among the exhibits are:
- The fossils;
- weapons that were used in different wars;
- sports trophies;
- evidence of Dallas' contribution to culture.
Some exhibitions are open only for the duration of the tour. In addition to organizing exhibitions, the staff of the institution conducts lectures and master classes. Groups of schoolchildren come here, and it is not uncommon to meet local residents, including families with children. If the child is under 3 years old, admission to the Old Red Museum is free, accompanied by an adult.
How to get
Public transport along the DART route runs next to the Old Red Museum. The nearest stations are Union Station, West End Station. The Old Red Museum is within walking distance from them. Visitors also come by taxi or rent a car to travel around Dallas. Carsharing services have been available since the age of 21, and foreigners should carry an international driver's license.
Gallery
