Marvelous isn’t it? This imposing structure before us is the United States Customs House in San Francisco. It stands as a testament to a bygone era a time when customs duties funded almost the entire US government. Imagine the bustling activity here during the 19th century. San Francisco’s extraordinary natural harbor thrived. The city anticipated even greater commerce with the upcoming Panama Canal. A larger custom house was deemed essential.
This magnificent building wasn’t easy to construct. The original design competition in 1905 was won by Eames & Young from St Louis. They were selected under the Tarsney Act which allowed for private architects. Their Beaux Arts Classicism style reflects the City Beautiful movement. The old custom house on Battery Street was demolished to make way for this one.
Construction began in 1906. Then disaster struck The Great 1906 Earthquake and Fire. The work was significantly delayed. Labor and materials were scarce. The earthquake even impacted the construction site. Water from the excavation site was used to fight the city’s raging fires. Customs personnel bravely joined the firefighting efforts saving nearby structures.
Finally in 1911 the building opened. It’s made of pale granite from Raymond California. Its foundation rests on timbers from the steamship Georgian a relic of the Gold Rush. The building’s design is a U shape surrounding a two-story post office and Custom Hall. Notice the symmetrical facade and the intricate granite carvings. These details are hallmarks of Beaux Arts Classicism.
Inside the Customs Hall you’ll find exquisite marble floors. Oak paneling adorns the walls. There’s even green leather and decorated canvas. The Custom Hall originally served as a central public and operational space. It boasts two significant murals by Abraham Lincoln Cooper. One depicts the completion of the Panama Canal the other is an allegory of San Francisco.
The building underwent seismic upgrades from 1993 to 1997 after the Loma Prieta earthquake. Even today this building continues to serve its original purpose. It’s a proud landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975. The US Customs Service is now part of Homeland Security. But this magnificent building still echoes with the history of commerce. It’s a powerful reminder of San Francisco’s past and enduring spirit.