Custom House

Here is a closeup of the Custom House designed by the architect, Ammi B. Young, from New Hampshire. The original Custom House was built between 1837 to 1847. Some critics found difficult to reconcile these Greek Doric columns with the Roman dome which once crowned the portico. Apparently more insult would come later. In 1913-1915 some of the columns of the portico were removed and sent to the Franklin Park Zoo and a tower was erected. The office tower sitting on top of the Custom House became the first skyscraper in Boston. Now the place is a Marriott Hotel with rooms starting at over $300 per night. There are also condominium apartments in the tower.