United States Customhouse

The United States Customhouse is a stone building with classical columns and balanced proportions that embodies Greek Revival style. It sits near the waterfront and features grand doorways and spacious interior rooms typical of 19th-century government buildings.

An architect named Robert Mills designed the building in the mid-1800s for the growing port and trading city. It was part of the era when New Bedford was one of America's most important whaling and trading ports.

The building shows how much sea trade mattered to the city - its grand facade was meant to display the power of the federal government. When you enter, you feel the seriousness of a place where business happened and rules were enforced.

The building sits near the water and the historic harbor area, making it easy to find while exploring the city. Visitors should know it is a working historic landmark, so hours and access can vary by season and special events.

The building once buzzed with customs officers cataloging goods and collecting fees, but that daily activity has given way to quiet. It is striking to stand in such a calm place and imagine how much trade and human energy were once concentrated here.