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Frank M. Johnson Jr. Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse

A historic courthouse in Montgomery, Alabama, renowned for its Renaissance Revival architecture and its role in the Civil Rights Movement.

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The Frank M. Johnson Jr. Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in Montgomery, Alabama, is a historic landmark that has played a significant role in American history. Completed in 1933, it is known for its Renaissance Revival architecture and for being the site where Judge Frank M. Johnson Jr. made many landmark civil rights decisions.

A brief summary to United States Post Office and Courthouse—Montgomery

Local tips

  • Visitors are required to clear airport-style security upon entry.
  • Note that cell phones are not allowed in the building.
  • A photo identification is required to enter the courthouse.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Frank M. Johnson Jr. Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse is located in downtown Montgomery. From many downtown points of interest, such as the Alabama State Capitol or the Rosa Parks Museum, it is easily accessible by foot. The courthouse is located near the Montgomery Bus Station.

  • Public Transport

    Montgomery Transit provides public transportation in the city. Check the Montgomery Transit website for routes and schedules to reach the courthouse. A single fare is typically around $1.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Montgomery. A short trip from a downtown hotel or attraction to the courthouse will likely cost between $8 and $15.

  • Parking

    Street parking and pay-to-park lots are available in the vicinity of the courthouse. Several parking decks are located within a few blocks, including the Municipal Deck and the Coosa Street Parking Deck. Hourly rates typically range from $1 to $4, with daily maximums around $6. Valet parking is available at nearby hotels for around $29 per day.

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Discover more about United States Post Office and Courthouse—Montgomery

The Frank M. Johnson Jr. Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse, located at 15 Lee Street in Montgomery, Alabama, stands as a testament to both architectural elegance and pivotal moments in the Civil Rights Movement. Constructed in 1933, the building originally served as the United States Post Office and Courthouse. Designed by local architect Frank Lockwood Sr. in the Renaissance Revival style, its architecture conveys the dignity and stability of the federal government, which was particularly important during the Great Depression. The building's exterior features a symmetrical facade with engaged Roman Doric porticos, limestone veneer, and pale sandstone. The interior boasts an elaborate L-shaped public lobby with travertine marble floors, Briar Hill sandstone walls, and coffered plaster ceilings with gold leaf. The most significant interior space is the U.S. District Courtroom on the second floor, where Judge Johnson presided over many landmark cases. In 1992, the building was renamed to honor Frank M. Johnson Jr., a distinguished judge who served there for nearly three decades. Judge Johnson made a series of rulings that were instrumental in advancing civil rights, including striking down Montgomery's bus segregation law in 1956 and allowing the Selma to Montgomery march to proceed in 1965. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 2015.

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