In 1879, a courthouse was built in the town square of Chattanooga, and was then remodeled in 1891 with a tall clock tower. In May, 1910, during a violent storm, Lightning struck that building, it caught fire and burned down. This courthouse was built at the same located and completed in 1913. Local architect Reuben H. Hunt made the Neo-classical design for the building which cost $350,000. The "fireproof" courthouse is constructed of Tennessee grey marble. Notable features include a glazed tile roof and colored glass dome. A flagpole used to be atop the building until the 90's.