Merchants' Exchange Building

The Merchants' Exchange Building is an exchange building in Philadelphia featuring Greek columns and classical design. The structure displays clear Greek Revival characteristics through its columned portico and symmetrical proportions.

The building was designed by William Strickland in 1832 and completed in 1834, making it the first purpose-built stock exchange structure in the United States. Its design set a new standard for commercial buildings in North America.

The building shows how Philadelphia functioned as a trading hub in the 1800s and what role such exchanges played in daily commerce. Today visitors can see how the space reflects the business activities and transactions that once happened here.

The building is located downtown and easily accessible from Third Street. The historic rooms can be toured, and visitors should allow time to explore the architectural details and spatial layout.

The design draws inspiration from an ancient Greek monument, the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates, which makes this building distinctive. This classical reference in a 19th-century American business building is uncommon and shows the deep connection to European architecture.

Location: Philadelphia

Inception: 1830s

Architects: William Strickland

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

Address: 143 South 3rd Street

GPS coordinates: 39.94730,-75.14600

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:40