Location: 908 Alabama Ave, Selma, AL 36701
Significance
The Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in Selma, Alabama is significant because for over eighty years it has served as a symbol of the federal presence in Selma. Located at the corner of Lauderdale and Alabama Streets, and one block off the main street, Broad, the building is in the center of the business district. It is located across the street from the Dallas County Courthouse and two blocks from the U.S. Post Office.
The building was constructed in 1909 to serve as the post office and courthouse for Selma. At the time, federal buildings were constructed under the auspices of the U.S. Treasury Department. James Knox Taylor, Supervising Architect of the Treasury, is listed as architect. A memorial arch, separate from the building, sits at the sidewalk leading to the main entry. The arch honors two Alabama Senators - John Tyler Morgan (1824-1907) and Edmund Winston Pettus (1821-1907) - who were instrumental in securing Federal appropriations for the State.
The building served as the post office for the community for over fifty years until a new post office was built two blocks away on Alabama Street. It has continued to serve as a Circuit Courthouse throughout its history. The building reflects the importance and craftsmanship accorded federal buildings of the early 20th Century. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. In a city with a significant number of historic buildings, the Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse serves as a traditional symbol of the federal presence in Selma, and as a good example of Renaissance Revival architecture in the city.
Facts
- Architect: Taylor, James Knox
- GSA Building Number: AL0055ZZ
- Landmark Status: National Register Listed
U.S. General Services Administration