Baltimore Living
Best Building in Need of a Rehab
The Clarence M. Mitchell Courthouse (East Building)
Published: September 21, 2011
111 N. Calvert St.
From the outside, the City Circuit East Courthouse is breathtaking. Formerly a post office, it’s a beautiful example of Greek revival architecture, faced with white Indiana limestone and occupying a literal city block. Once you get inside, it’s a whole different story. Over the years, the interior of the 100-year-old structure has become an eyesore; filthy bathrooms that smell like latrines, nonworking water fountains that you wouldn’t want to drink out of even if they did work, and quick-to-break-down elevators with graffiti carved into the walls. The courthouse isn’t just a central city hub, it’s a landmark that’s witnessed some important moments in American history (the trial that resulted in the resignation of Vice President Spiro Agnew, to name just one). It deserves better, and we hope the city can find funds it in its (admittedly limited) budget to clean up the old girl some.
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