Province House, Colonial governmental building in Downtown Crossing, Boston, US
Province House was a colonial governmental building in downtown Boston known for its impressive architecture featuring a grand main staircase, Tudor-style chimney stacks, and ornately decorated gables. The structure displayed the craftsmanship and design quality typical of Massachusetts colonial construction.
Built in 1679, the structure served as the official residence for royal governors of Massachusetts Bay starting in 1716 until British forces evacuated Boston in 1776. Its central role in provincial administration ended with American independence.
The building inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne to write literary works that captured its historical importance and anchored it in American letters. Visitors today can understand how this place fascinated writers and remains part of Boston's cultural memory.
The location of the former building is marked by stone steps on Washington Street south of Milk Street in downtown Boston. Visitors can easily explore this historic spot on foot and view the remaining steps as part of the city's heritage.
The structure underwent modifications during the 1700s including removal of its original chimney stacks, which significantly altered its appearance. A fire caused severe damage in 1864, after which demolition followed in 1922.
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