Our History

Benjamin Bosse

Benjamin Bosse, an Evansville historical figure and local industrialist was responsible for the construction of The Court Building. The Court Building was constructed in 1908 and was originally called the Furniture Building or Furniture Mart as over half of the building was used as furniture display like the Merchandise Mart in Chicago. The Furniture Building was built of steel with a reinforced concrete frame. The building first appeared in the city directory in 1909 as The Furniture Building located at 100 -106 Upper 4th Street. The building opened with 21 tenants, but by 1910 the building listed 21 tenants and only five vacancies. In 1940, the building had changed somewhat with many attorneys, insurance companies, and oil producers along with the furniture wholesalers.

Tony Hulman

Tony Hulman, President of Hulman, purchased the Building in the late 1930's.

Mary Fendrich Hulman

The name was changed to The Court Building in 1940. By 1950 there were 65 tenants with only one vacancy. In addition to his many real estate holdings, Tony Hulman owned the Clabber Girl Baking Powder Corporation and later became internationally known as the owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Mr. Hulman died in the late seventies and for a number of the years, his wife, an Evansville native; Mary Fendrich Hulman served as the Chairman of the company.

Mari Hulman George

After her death, her daughter Mari Hulman George succeeded her as Chairman.

Tony George

Mari's son Tony Hulman George became President and CEO of the many Hulman companies. Both Mari George and Tony George continue to serve in these respective positions. Tony George has become widely known as the owner and founder of the Indy Racing League and his efforts in expanding auto racing. The Hulman-George family now hosts the 3 largest sporting events in the world.

President Harry Truman passes in front of the Court Building during an Evansville campaign visit.

In 1970, the Civic Center opened and the Old Court House across the street was closed. This was somewhat disastrous to The Court Building. By 1970 the building over the years and once again has returned to its prominence.