The Custom House Tower is a 29-story skyscraper that is a masterful blending of two very discrete styles. The original building was built in 1847 in the Greek Revival style in a crucifix shape that featured 36 Doric granite columns (only 1/2 of which actually supported the structure) and which weighed some 42 tons each. Each of these columns was carved from a single piece of granite. Atop this original structure was also a magnificent dome reminiscent of the Pantheon.
In 1915 the architectural firm of Peabody & Sterns modified this structure with an Italian Renaissance tower for added office space. Now when this addition was put in place the city of Boston actually had a height restriction limiting buildings to being no higher than 125’ feet. This proposed addition by Peabody & Sterns actually “exceeded” this limit, however, was allowed to pass because it was a federal building and hence did not have to adhere to this standard. Thus, this allowed for the creation of the tallest building in all of Boston (and actually all of New England) until 1964 when it was finally surpassed by the Prudential Building in Back Bay. Currently the structure is the 17th tallest building in all of Boston.
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| Custom House Tower |
Now, of the current structure, the central focus is obviously the 22’ wide clock. While it is has become such a staple to the Boston skyline that it is hard to believe that actually for much of the 20th century this clock did not even work. The clock was not well planned and the motor initially installed to manage the clock was insufficient and it took many years for the issue to be rectified.
In fact the whole building had to be rectified, for after the customs house, office was shut down the building maintained a period where it was unoccupied for some 14 years. Finally, in 1995 Marriott began renovating the upper floors as a series of time share properties to which the property maintains to this day.
If you wish to explore and experience the Customs House today, you are welcome to do so. The 26th floor has an open-air observation deck, just above the clock, that individuals may visit. Please note, however, that the experience is limited to a one-time tour every day of the week (less Friday) at 2pm… so plan ahead.
One final tip if you wish to take some extra time to explore the innards of the Custom House Tower. If you walk inside, take the stairwell to the 2nd floor before hopping onto the elevator. Here you will not only be able to view some exhibits from the Peabody Essex Museum, which rotate on a periodic basis, but you’ll also be able to enjoy a spectacular view of the original rotunda and dome.
- Website: http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bosch-marriotts-custom-house/
- Address: 3 McKinley Square, Boston, MA
- Cost: Free. The observation deck does include a small fee. You may contact the Marriott for more information at (617) 310-6300.
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