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Portland, OR

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Recommended Reviews - Pioneer Courthouse

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Jeff N.

Completed in 1875, Pioneer Courthouse has remained at the city's geographic and commercial center but imagine this beautiful Italianate building gone and a parking garage in its place! It almost happened. They also almost tore it down to build an office for the Historical Society, a museum, a theatre and even headquarters for the Boy Scouts! Fortunately, Pioneer Courthouse has survived numerous attempts to remove it from the cityscape and today it is a protected National Landmark that has welcomed US Presidents and also witnessed significant trials in the history of Portland and the Pacific Northwest. This building is an actual functioning courthouse and the oldest federal building in the Pacific Northwest as well as the second oldest west of the Mississippi River. It also has one of the oldest working elevators still in use in the United States and you know you want to go for a ride in it! You are able to enter and explore the building but you will need to have your bags screened since this is a federal courthouse. Construction began in 1869 and the building was completed in 1875. It has a truly elegant interior with ornate hallways and a beautiful historic courtroom on the second floor that looks like a perfect movie set, but it is the real thing. The stone floors of the hallways shine and reflect the interior lighting. The building's exterior is constructed of blue freestone and rusticated Chuckanut sandstone both from Washington State. There are four doorways to the building but enter through the western set of doors directly across from Pioneer Square. The ornate woodwork found throughout the interior is of Oregon Ash. On the ceilings there are plaster designs and ornamental cornices. There is an elegant symmetrical double stairway with green patterned carpet leading to a landing and then a single stairway from the first floor to the second. On the second floor you will encounter the court room, the most interesting room in the building. Inside of the court you find carved wooden columns as well as a carved seal of the United States behind the bench of the judges. On the floor you will see an intricate carpeting of mostly white, blue and yellow with the letters US circled in a wreath. For all of you vexillologists on the back wall of the courtroom is a thirty-three star flag symbolic of when Oregon became the 33rd state. The windows of the courtroom are trimmed with dark blue curtains on the top and sides. There are also several small stained glass windows in the courtroom, including one with an American flag shield and the year 1875. This room actually has some wood on the floor and some red brick in front of the marble facade of the fireplace. The octagonal cupola at the top gives a great view of downtown Portland and the exhibits inside will show you how different these views were during the life of the courthouse. The Windows in the cupola are all made of old glass and appear a bit wavy or saggy but that's natural. It may appear they're thicker at the bottom and that's because the thicker edges were placed at the bottom. The building has had numerous occupants throughout its history including the U.S. Post Office on the first floor and the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon was located on the second floor. Other offices included the U.S. Customs Service and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (now the IRS). There are also many educational displays in the building as well as a collection of documents signed by various Presidents of the United States on display. The next time you're in Portland's living room take a walk across the street and check out this living piece of history where you can wander around the building and explore the past for free! Enjoy the Italianate architecture, city vista from the cupola and the exhibits by the Pioneer Courthouse Historical Society that tell the story of the building, the courts and the people who have worked there. Best of all, it costs nothing. So cross the street, and step back in time.

Mark B.

I like this building, its cool, I came here often when it housed a post office. by the way it was one of the best post offices, such a cool building. Large and imposing it feels like what I think a courthouse should feel. Unfortunately with its use changed over the years it is now very limited what you can see of the interior. The stone exterior makes for a great back drop for the park next door, The building just imposes, which I am sure is just what the builders planed. It has a great history, Read the plaque outside, better yet look it up for more details. The building is the oldest Federal building in the Northwest and the second oldest this side of the Mississippi. So you know it has some great history. The building was listed n the National Register of Historic Places.in 1973. in 1977 It was named a National Historic Landmark. Hot tip, if you go into the Nines (hotel) and take the elevator up you get great views as you come off the elevators.

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1 year ago

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3 years ago

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13 years ago

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10 years ago

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11 years ago

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15 years ago

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16 years ago

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12 years ago

Helpful 5
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8 years ago

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13 years ago

A great piece of history.

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13 years ago

If you like to people watch. This is your spot.

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9 years ago

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“The Windows in the cupola are all made of old glass and appear a bit wavy or saggy but that's natural.”

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Mark O Hatfield United States Courthouse - The late Senator Mark O. Hatfield

Mark O Hatfield United States Courthouse

4.8(6 reviews)
0.2 mi•Downtown, Southwest Portland

My kids have really been into touring tall buildings (e.g., visiting Portland City Grill in the US…read moreBancorp Tower/Big Pink for no good reason than just to look out the window and share an expensive piece of cake) of late. The only problem is, there aren't a lot of tall buildings in Portland. And of the few we have, almost none of them have public spaces where you can enjoy the view. Except for the aforementioned Portland City Grill. Where you have to buy something just to take in the admittedly nice view. The Hatfield courthouse doesn't seem to be on anybody's lists of "fun things to do with kids (or tourists)", but it's not a bad idea. Of course, you have to go when the courthouse is open, so weekends are out. And yes, you have to submit to an airport-like screening just to get in the door. But if you can get over the awkwardness of having to put your belt back on in the middle of the courthouse's main floor (or, I guess, plan ahead and don't wear a metal belt buckle like I did), then the guards are nice and helpful enough. The main thing to do is take one of the (north!) elevators to the ninth floor and head out to the sculpture garden. It's not covered, so probably best to pick a non-rainy day for this. We visited at mid-morning on a Friday in April and didn't see a single other person out there, though I could imagine it would be a popular place for someone in the building to have lunch on one of Portland's semi-rare clear non-summer days. The sculptures aren't what I'd call high art--more whimsical than anything. But, you know, public art. And the views north, south, and west are worth it even if you don't like the sculptures. Since one of the other reviewers mentioned the views from the 16th floor, I'll mention that I'd called the courthouse ahead of my visit to ask about this, and was officially told that the 16th floor (and, presumably, others?) wasn't open to visitors. That said, we took the elevator up and, once again, didn't see a single other person, so we enjoyed the views out the windows up there. So maybe it's okay as long as you're quiet and don't disturb the goings-on? You can see a little more from inside the building than you can from the sculpture garden--fully north (to Mt. St. Helens), and south along the Willamette. The building itself is also fairly attractive, with some nice waterfall touches here and there on the first floor.

I once heard Mark Hatfield in person. He was a consummate senator, charming. He got things done…read more OHSU was made by this Oregon senator. I respect him, unlike Senator Packwood who went off track. I'm a big fan of Senator Wyden. I'm also a big fan of the 9th Circuit Federal Appeals Court and they sometimes meet in Portland. I have to admit, this building has always been off-putting to me, while the old Pioneer Courthouse is less so and charming. Modern age vs traditional age. https://www.yelp.com/biz/pioneer-courthouse-portland?hrid=gM3Sg2Un3_gSgqhhm4ldmA&utm_campaign=www_review_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct) It is completely open to the public after the necessary federal building search and security of our modern situation, fine. I have a fascination with the law, and particularly environmental law. I engaged an opportunity to hear oral arguments in the Mark O Hatfield Courthouse for Kelsey Rose Juliana v. USA in person. https://www.ca9.uscourts.gov/media/view_video.php?pk_vid=0000015741&fbclid=IwAR3K3vnHCO4M2KlcMZ1NSQ4ua1ZZhpdyA-hONwyj6N7uS0u1X5ojmuVVkCc Jump to 29:00. All of the security staff were polite and helpful with directions to me unfamiliar with the building. I had heard a long time ago that this building might have an outdoor deck. Yes they do! Ask security for the simple directions and admit yourself to a little-used 2 story deck. It has beautiful and well-maintained geometric plantings. I would not choose the bronze cast art myself, but kids might enjoy it. The deck would be a great place for a romantic picnic. Security said you can bring food and cart food in for a picnic, but confirm that in advance, day of, security adjusts. I gave the Pioneer Courthouse five stars. And I'm also reviewing this courthouse from an architectural view. The nature of courthouses, government buildings, and religious buildings is to overwhelm, dominate, and inspire visitors with grand spaces and rich materials. The signature tone of the building is a wavy white in grey stone, both gauged (perfectly flat, but rough) and polished. But they they mix in green and white marble, a cream stone, terrazzo and others. Too many materials! What were the architects thinking? So minus a star for architectural confusion. I would agree with other Yelpers, check the quotes inscribed in the walls, five stars for that.

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Mark O Hatfield United States Courthouse - Web

Web

Mark O Hatfield United States Courthouse
Mark O Hatfield United States Courthouse

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Washington County Court House - The front court of the Washington County Courthouse. Cool garden frfr

Washington County Court House

2.6(13 reviews)
15.1 mi

Yes, I am going to give jury duty four stars…read more Here is why. Parking could be worse. ( like in downtown PDX, that courthouse is impossible!) The grounds are pretty. Lots of benches outside. Even garbage cans, rare these days. The courthouse is pretty nice inside. They have made it ADA accessible. The security people are friendly. The jury coordinator is lovely. There is free coffee. The jury instruction video is informative AND reminds you that ( grumpy and reluctant though we all are) this jury of your peers thing is an important core process in our justice system/democracy. It is our civic responsibility. It could be you someday depending on a jury. You never know. They put on " Apollo 13" to watch while waiting for the judges to gather groups of jurors. They are very organized. The jury I was selected for was sequestered on the 3rd day for deliberations and they provided us a lunch of pizza and salad. That was nice. It was mentally difficult ( paying close attention to detail for that many solid hours as an adult makes you grateful to be long out of school) but really pretty painless overall. Except for that whole deciding someone's fate part. That is sobering. Once you serve, it is two years until they call you again. ( some places it is every year) I have been called for jury duty I think five times and this is the first time I was chosen and while I was whiny outside of the courthouse about my life being interrupted, it was interesting. I learned things. I am still so caffeinated ( I may have drunk a bit too much free coffee). If you shirk or blowoff jury duty it is not good.You could be fined or spend time in jail. Just serve your time. P.S. Do not make lame, pathetic, false excuses to the judge as to why you cannot serve. The judge does not care and you will just look foolish.

Well security was a HUGE pain. I had to leave a wine bottle opener because it's a weapon. I mean…read moreTSA won't take them anymore but I was in a hurry to get to my attorney so I said whatever let's go. I met her in the "cafeteria" which isn't a cafeteria at all. Not even a break room actually. It's small, old and doesn't really offer any real food. My court date was for 2pm and we didn't actually get before the judge until closer to 2:30. But I have to say it was due to the lengthy speeches several previous petitioners gave to the judge even though he kept asking them to get to the point. I felt BAD for the judge when we finished because of the nonsense he has to deal with. The court is small and still it's not incredibly clear where everything is. I just was nervous I would be late and wanted to be on time with my ducks in order. At least the outside is pretty. Oh and the other thing: PARKING is insane. Take at least 15 minutes extra for yourself to park!!!

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Washington County Court House - The jury duty check-in line

The jury duty check-in line

Washington County Court House - Front of the courthouse

Front of the courthouse

Washington County Court House - The road to hell

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The road to hell

Gus J Solomon United States Court House - Usual SBA links

Gus J Solomon United States Court House

4.8(4 reviews)
0.2 mi•Downtown, Southwest Portland

This is one of Portlands three Federal Courthouses. It is big an imposing taking up the whole…read moreblock. The stone exterior feels like a federal building. The enterior is fall marble and bronze very detailed. The building had a Post Office on the first floor, you can still see the PO boxes and the teller windows for the post office. The building today houses lots of government offices. When I came here to take some pictures, a security guard soon arrived but seemed happy when I told him I liked the building and recommended some shots, and a visit to the Pioneer Court house. Fun Fact #1 it is now named for Gus J Solomon, the longest serving judge in Oregon's District Court.. Fun Fact #2 Several movies and tv shows have filmed here including an episode of Grimm which has exterior shots.

This is an impressive building, very clean and austere. I would imagine this building to be one of…read morethe government office buildings in some futuristic book series that likes to keep the government officials high on their pedestals, while the lowly civilians are kept down on their knees in respect for the high and mighty. I am picturing something to the affect of the Hunger games or the Divergent series of books (and movies). The Gus J. Solomon United States Courthouse is a federal courthouse located in downtown Portland, Oregon, United States. Completed in 1933, it previously housed the United States District Court for the District of Oregon until the Mark O. Hatfield United States Courthouse opened in 1997. This courthouse currently is used by commercial tenants and formerly housed a U.S. Postal Service branch. In 1979, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places as U.S. Courthouse. The women's restroom had an entryway with a chaise lounge to relax upon, and I can imagine ladies powdering their noses here some 60 years ago. The interior and exterior both have the feel of an older world.

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Gus J Solomon United States Court House - Entrance off SW Main Street on a beautiful spring day

Entrance off SW Main Street on a beautiful spring day

Gus J Solomon United States Court House
Gus J Solomon United States Court House

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Clark County Superior Court - Wedding day! Professional and the judge was quite nice

Clark County Superior Court

3.5(4 reviews)
7.7 mi

Great atmosphere. The staff were very cordial and helpful. We were there for the joining of my…read moreson and his girl. The children were ecstatic and touched. It was a cute ceremony and quick. Saved funds doing it this way. Short and sweet ceremony. Thank you Clark County.

So I had a Case out of here where the county pulled my name from the Long hat slow to speak…read more I was charged with a felony in which I didn't commit wasting 8months of my time and over $6,000.00 in assets. The way and manner in which the court functions left me with having absolutely no respect for WA Justice I was guilty until proven innocent no matter what the law says that's how I was treated. I won by jury trial which I am thankful that the people of Clark County are able to see the truth and understood my resolve. Let me tell you the prosecution I was told was this ambitious new upcoming prosecutor Katie Sinclair but let's just say she is sloppy and a terrible closer even with a judge allowing her every free opportunity to make a case against objections that had just cause. This prosecutor can't close cases and even worse is how she was promoted to such a position when evident by her using the law books in court to reference the law and her serious lack of confidence that look more like a child asking Daddy for permission to speaks in court the position is not earned but rather given by a poorly weak prosecution within Clark County. This prosecutor isn't ready for her position she is unqualified and lacks proper guidance from experienced prosecutors and even with a judge giving her the case on a silver platter she still lost. Some might say "it's like watching theatre" I'm sorry theatre and amateur prosecutors have no place in matters relating to real peoples lives and decisions that threatens the freedoms of its citizens this court and it's legal representatives should be ashamed. I will give some counsel to this court it's judges and prosecutors 1st The People have the final say and thank god for that. 2nd sometimes it's better to learn to choose your battles more carefully. And 3rd stop putting weak lambs when they have less experience then most paralegals in position of such great responsibilities. The recommendation from me and perhaps many others who have seen Ms.Sinclair would agree Send this prosecutor to a mandatory 2 years of aggressive Mock Trials so she can have some respect and can be a wolf when standing inside of any court. Katie Sinclair you have much to learn and you are not ready. I appreciate the people of my new home and thank the people for giving justice and truth accordingly.

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Clark County Superior Court

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Portland City Hall

Portland City Hall

4.4(8 reviews)
0.3 mi•Downtown, Southwest Portland

I've heard it said that you can't fight city hall.... but why would you want to when it's this…read moregood? I had some business to attend to while in Portland at City Hall. When I finished I decided to check out the building and if you have the chance you should too. Most people who see the building say it has a very unique look about it with, especially with the stylized columns. The front facade of the building is made of sandstone and you may see some differences in color. That is due to the age of the original stone or the lighter colored stones have been clean or replaced. Many people don't know this but the actual urns on the top of the building are actually replicas. The originals were too heavy and were a safety hazard so they were replaced with lighter ones. In the very front of City Hall on the right side is a replica of the Liberty Bell. It sits in a nice landscaped garden with roses and fresh grown vegetables there to help feed the poor. The interior of the building has a nice bright feel to it since it has been remodeled. There is an atrium on both sides of the building which is next to the two staircases and the elevator shafts. The stairwells have some nice looking wrought ironwork and copper plating along the stairwells. These open spaces are nice and really make the building seem accessible and when events are being held in either atrium if they fill up there is always room along the stairwells to watch the events. The flooring in the hallways of the first three floors have been restored with the actual old marble tiles that were saved. The building also has managed to retain original doors and moldings. Windows are now double pane throughout most of the building making the building more fuel efficient. On the first floor of the building there is a display of the Visual Chronicles of Portland. The artwork used portrays the uniqueness of the rose city. The Evolution of the City is another exhibit on the first floor. This exhibit has a lot of very old photos showing the evolution of the city throughout its history. The pictures appear on a monitor and you can interact with it and delve further into the history of Portland. I think it is a great way to really learn about the city and the many changes that have happened and it is free. While I was there I spent a while checking it out and thought it was both educational and something that even kids might enjoy. Another interesting site on the first floor is the time capsule which is not to be opened until 2098. Inside are a lot of objects from the city of Portland in 1998. Some of the more interesting things include samples of tap and rain water as well as water from the Willamette River. Letters from students to students 100 years in the future, coins from 1898 and 1998, a medal from the PDX marathon and a Rose Festival book and pin. On the second floor you will find the City Council Chambers. There is room for 80 people on the lower floor and 100 people in the upper level of the chamber. It too has been renovated. I was fortunate enough to get a tour of the chamber by one of the security guards who was kind enough to let me in and show me around. The public art in the chamber is called "Our Time" and it is done in bronze, steel, paint and light. The second work behind the council dais is called "Port-Land" and is done in plaster and paint. The lobby art outside the chamber is called "Brief Cases" it represents the mixing of civic and personal life. On the third floor you will find the the office of the Mayor. Stop in and the gentleman at the the front desk, Mr Woods, is a great guy and took the time to explain a lot of the items in the office. The Council Chambers Balcony public art called "Lower Willamette Working Through the Arch: River and Forest. It commemorates Portland being founded in the middle of the forest along a river. Stretching from the left across the canvas you can travel up the river and the 20th to per-settlement centuries. On the fourth floor is "Rose City, City Rose" which is on two canvases. Take some time to check out Portland City hall and make sure to stop in and see Mr. Woods in the Mayor's office. He was very knowledgeable and friendly.

Portland is still a dump. Downtown is full of empty businesses and zombies doing the zombie…read moreshuffle. NW is full of tents. The fred meyer on Burnside always has people hanging out there that are not in their right mind and not sober. It doesn't feel safe and is not an inviting place. The main library is a day shelter. The Safeway by PSU is even worse. People should be more diligent about who they vote for and what they are voting for. Or just move.

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Portland City Hall
Portland City Hall
Portland City Hall

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Clackamas County Court - South side of the courthouse

Clackamas County Court

1.6(5 reviews)
13.3 mi

Very respecful agents at the entrance. Prepare for airport like check. Tons of marriages at 1pm so…read morebeware.

Is my opinion this is a den of thieves. My father passed away had a will. My didn't bother to tell…read moreme my father passed away for 5 years. The attorney handling the case was disbarred for stealing from an elderly couple. Attorney James burien. I was promised things from my father that I never got. My dad's land was sold for next to nothing against my will. His assets were sold. My niece works for the Clackamas county dispatcher. Took over the case before I even knew what happened and everything was sold and squandered. I was entitled to a third of the estate. I doubt if I got a fraction of that. When I went in to put my name down on the estate and give them my contact information I was yelled and screamed at by the clerk. Told I was not part of the case I informed her it was my father's estate and that I was part of the case she argued with me and put on the paperwork that she informed me that I was not part of the case. Talk about the blue wall of silence. When I went into a hearing I got yelled and screamed at by a cop calling Audi name I did not recognize ran up to me. made me produce ID to prove I was not the person. And then yelled at me and said that you come when I call you. I believe Clackamas county is a nut House. and that half the people in the system need to be put in the jails that they're running. Attorneys on the take. And I believe judges on the take. It is no longer for the people by the people. It's all about stealing your money at least that's my opinion.

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Clackamas County Court
Clackamas County Court
Clackamas County Court

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Portland Oregon White Stag Sign - Japanese American Historical Plaza

Portland Oregon White Stag Sign

4.3(61 reviews)
0.5 mi•Old Town - Chinatown

Beautiful and iconic landmark for the city of Portland OR. It can be seen during the day but really…read morepops at night. It sits atop the White Stag Building at 70 NW Crouch Street. A bit of history.... 1940 - The sign was installed and originally advertised White Satin Sugar 1957 - Converted for White Stag Sportswear, adding the now- famous leaping white deer 1978 - Designated a historic landmark. 1997-2010 - It read "Made in Oregon - Old Town" 2010 - present - The city of Portland acquired the sign and changed the main lettering to "Portland, Oregon", while retaining the stag and the "Old Town" panel. Christmas tradition: The stag's nose is illuminated red like Rudolph

Portland is a gorgeous city with some beautiful views, incredible food, and plenty of places worth…read moreexploring. My friend and I were able to get some great pictures in front of the iconic Portland Oregon White Stag Sign, but unfortunately, the surrounding area raised some serious concerns for me. The unhoused population in this area was probably the largest and most visible I have personally encountered. I am a strong believer in treating unhoused people with dignity and making sure people have access to adequate housing, mental health care, sanitation, and other resources. Seeing so many people seemingly living underneath the bridge and throughout the surrounding streets was genuinely upsetting. As we walked around, we also encountered several people who appeared to be experiencing mental health crises or otherwise struggling without adequate support. There was also a significant amount of human waste on the streets, which immediately made me wonder whether there are enough accessible public restrooms and sanitation facilities available in this part of the city. More than anything, the experience left me wondering what resources are actually being provided by the city and local elected officials to address homelessness, mental health, sanitation, and basic human needs in this area. These are human beings who deserve better than being left to live in conditions like this. The sign itself is absolutely worth seeing, but the conditions surrounding it made the experience uncomfortable and honestly pretty heartbreaking.

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Portland Oregon White Stag Sign - Absolutely amazing views on a clear night

Absolutely amazing views on a clear night

Portland Oregon White Stag Sign - Eastbank Esplanade

Eastbank Esplanade

Portland Oregon White Stag Sign - Exceptional views at night

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Exceptional views at night

Pioneer Courthouse - landmarks - Updated October 2026

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