Cincinnati City Hall
In 1884, Cincinnati experienced a courthouse riot followed by a labor riot two years later. Downtown residents were concerned about trends toward violence, and a new mayor was elected to gain control. The design of the new City Hall was intended to stand as a symbol of the government's power.
Current OwnerCity of Cincinnati
Historic StatusListed on NRHP on December 11, 1972.
Unique FeaturesReferencing the work of H. H. Richardson, the muscular style of the building creates an impression of strength, stability, and power. The tower, turrets, massive arches, and scale of the materials suggest a fortress-like quality. A large courtyard is located in the center of the building and has been studied for enclosure.
Original OwnerCity of Cincinnati
Completion Date1894
Original FunctionCity offices and Council chambers
StyleRichardsonian Romanesque
ArchitectSamuel Hannaford & Sons, one of Cincinnati's most prolific 19th Century architects who also designed Cincinnati City Hall and Music Hall.
801 Plum St., Cincinnati, OH 45202