Upshur Manor

Pros

• They love the old courthouse; the history is rich.
• The ladies there were very helpful in getting what they needed.
• The service is fast, and the red and green sauce is the best in Texas.
• The employees were very nice when helping with birth certificates.
• The courthouse is a historic building with lots of history.
• The women in that office were very sweet and friendly.
• The courthouse was nicely decorated for the holidays.
• The staff were great and people were in and out quickly.
• The tax office staff were very helpful and got everything done in ample time.
• Dogs were allowed inside and everyone was very nice.
• They love this old courthouse; the employees are nice.
• They have gone beyond expectations in decorating for Christmas.

Cons

• The reviewer states the area is segregated and that non-white people should not move nearby, calling it very scary.
• The reviewer was disappointed with the new voting machines, noting votes sometimes would not record and requiring assistance.
• The reviewer describes the building as very old with many steps in terrible repair, a tripping hazard and a liability.
• The reviewer felt that most staff were unfriendly, with the bailiff being the only exception described as nice.
• The reviewer called the courthouse bland compared to other county courthouses.
• The reviewer includes a violent threat toward staff, stating they would "smoke their ass."

Review

Gilmer's courthouse stands as a sturdy emblem of the town's long, layered history, perched on a square that feels as much like a living museum as it is a functioning seat of government. Visitors repeatedly point to its historic charm - the marble, granite, and tile that have endured for generations, and the old-world feel of hardwood finishes and brass hardware. Even as renovations progress and the building is under construction, the sense of being in a storied place remains strong. Several reviewers note the structure's status as an old landmark, and many look forward to the makeover's completion with quiet anticipation about preserving its character while upgrading its facilities.

A common throughline in the feedback is the people who work there. Across many entries, the staff in the clerk of courts office and related departments are described as friendly, patient, and helpful. People recount quick, smooth experiences for routine needs like birth certificates and marriage licenses - "fast service," "great and helpful" personnel, and "in and out" results. One review highlights the kindness of the team when helping an elderly relative obtain a birth certificate, while another notes the county clerk and the judge's secretary going "above her pay grade" to offer assistance. There are even personal anecdotes about a deputy at the front desk who was perceptive and knowledgeable enough to steer a visitor to the right floors and offices, turning what could be a confusing process into a positive visit. In many accounts, the courthouse square itself contributes to the sense of community, with people stopping to chat or make use of the surrounding shops and cafes.

Procedurally, the courthouse handles a mix of essential civic tasks that residents rely on. Several reviewers mention paying property taxes, obtaining tags, and handling other official paperwork. Birth certificates and marriage licenses are common themes, with multiple stories of efficient service and supportive staff. There is a practical note about certain requirements, such as some birth certificate notes needing a Social Security card, mail, or ID, which underscores the real-world, day-to-day nature of the work done here. A few visitors describe peaceful, orderly experiences - no long waits and clear directions - while others recount isolated moments of frustration, such as an old voting machine that didn't always record votes, signaling the challenges that can accompany aging infrastructure.

The building's aesthetic and historical ambiance is frequently celebrated, but there are also cautions tied to its age. Reviewers who have walked the courthouse steps comment on the numerous stairs and the general wear that comes with a very old structure. Some describe the stairways and entrances as being "terrible repair" and a potential safety hazard, underscoring the importance of ongoing renovations to address accessibility and safety. A few entries touch on holiday decor and the festive atmosphere around the square, noting that the courthouse is nicely dressed for the season and that events in the surrounding area - like car shows and antique happenings - enhance the experience of visiting the square.

In addition to praise, there are more complicated threads within the feedback. A prominent concern raised by one reviewer centers on the broader area around the courthouse, describing segregation and safety anxieties. The language used reflects a painful and inflammatory viewpoint that calls for a candid recognition of tension in the community; this part of the conversation is not an endorsement but rather a snapshot of a troubling sentiment found in some comments. There are also intense, incoherent messages interwoven with political and religious rhetoric that touch on fear, conflict, and distrust. These portions do not reflect official policy or the courthouse's mission; they are personal expressions found within the review stream. The presence of such content serves as a reminder that public spaces like this courthouse intersect with a wide range of opinions, some constructive and others far from it.

Overall, the courthouse in Gilmer remains a cornerstone of the community: a place where history, government, and daily life converge. Visitors consistently praise the staff for their courtesy and efficiency, the tangible beauty of the old building, and the sense that the square around the courthouse is a hub of local activity and family-friendly events. While there are legitimate concerns about aging infrastructure, safety, and the need for ongoing renovations, the prevailing tone is one of respect for the building's legacy and appreciation for the people who keep it running. As renovations continue, many look forward to a refreshed, safer, and even more welcoming courthouse that preserves its historic soul while better serving the needs of the community.

This area of Gilmer, Texas offers a variety of conveniences for seniors looking to settle in a peaceful and accessible neighborhood. With several dining options nearby including Black Kettle Cafe and La Caretta, as well as pharmacies such as Gilmer Drug Co. within walking distance, residents can easily meet their daily needs. Places of worship like Bethesda Masonic Temple and First Baptist Church are also close by for those seeking spiritual fulfillment. In terms of healthcare, the proximity to physicians like Lewis R King MD and ETMC Gilmer Hospital ensures easy access to medical services. Additionally, transportation options such as U-Haul make it convenient for seniors to get around when needed. Overall, this part of Gilmer provides a well-rounded community with essential amenities for comfortable senior living.

Restaurants

• Black Kettle Cafe (0.2 miles)
• La Caretta (0.2 miles)
• Jack In The Box (0.3 miles)
• La Finca (0.3 miles)
• Chicken Express (0.3 miles)
• Swanner's Hamburgers (0.5 miles)
• Sonic Drive-In (0.6 miles)

Pharmacies

• Gilmer Drug Co. (0.2 miles)
• The Med-Shop Pharmacy (0.7 miles)
• Brookshire Food & Pharmacy (1.1 miles)
• Walker Pharmacy (13.2 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (13.6 miles)
• Grace A C Co. (13.8 miles)
• Walmart Pharmacy (14.6 miles)

Places of Worship

• Bethesda Masonic Temple (0.2 miles)
• First Baptist Church (0.3 miles)
• Brumley Baptist Church (0.4 miles)
• Church of Christ (0.5 miles)
• Gilmer Baptist Church (0.8 miles)
• Enon Baptist Church (0.9 miles)
• Friendship Baptist Church (1 miles)

Cafes

• Gilmer Donut (0.2 miles)

Transportation

• U-Haul (0.4 miles)
• U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (8.4 miles)
• U-Haul Moving & Storage (13.2 miles)
• U-Haul (14.4 miles)

Physicians

• Lewis R King MD (0.4 miles)
• Buller David W (0.4 miles)
• Diagnostic Clinic of Longview (0.4 miles)
• Etmc First Physicians Clinic (0.4 miles)
• Good Shepherd Family Health Center Gilmer (0.4 miles)
• Precision Spine Care (13.2 miles)
• Hugman-Kent Clinic (13.2 miles)

Hospitals

• ETMC Gilmer (0.4 miles)
• Big Sandy Medical Clinic (14 miles)
• Brentwood Outreach Center (16.7 miles)