Here at 200 Chestnut Street stands a testament to both Philadelphia’s port history and the power of Art Deco design the United States Custom House. It is more than just a building. It is a symbol of a city’s resilience during tough times.
The United States Custom House emerged from the Great Depression. Construction started in 1932 under the Works Progress Administration. This federal program aimed to relieve unemployment. The United States Custom House opened its doors on November 10, 1934. The project cost over $3.5 million.
Philadelphia’s growth as an industrial hub increased shipping traffic. The U.S. Customs Service needed more space. Their previous home since 1845 the Second Bank of the United States was too small. Congress approved funds for the new United States Custom House after the 1929 stock market crash. The building directly employed over 4000 workers for two years boosting the local economy. The United States Custom House was the first step in redeveloping the area. This led to the creation of Independence National Historical Park.
Ritter & Shay designed the United States Custom House. They were a prominent Philadelphia architectural firm. The building’s base has classical details that complement its historic surroundings. The Art Deco tower rises boldly above.
The United States Custom House occupies an entire city block. It sits between Second, Chestnut, American, and Sansom Streets. The building rises 17 stories to its lantern. The base is clad in limestone with aluminum details and steel windows.
The tower has a cruciform plan. It is built of red brick with limestone trim. Wood windows complete the design. An octagonal lantern tops the United States Custom House. It is based on the ancient Lantern of Rhodes. Terra cotta grilles and limestone eagles decorate the lantern. Originally the lantern housed a powerful light fueled by logs and crude oil. The basement even included a 30-space garage.
Inside the United States Custom House is art. George Harding created 31 mural panels. They are in the vestibule, elevator lobby, and rotunda. Nautical images and symbols of commerce fill these murals. Ships planes and Neptune figures celebrate Philadelphia’s port.
The rotunda is a highlight. A coffered plaster dome tops it. Fluted serpentine marble columns support the dome. Each coffer features a gold shell. The frieze shows the winds from Greek mythology. Circular stairs rise under small domes.
The rotunda cleverly hides the loading docks. These docks take up half of the first floor.
The U.S. General Services Administration restored the United States Custom House in the early 1990s. The project conserved finishes and upgraded systems. It also improved accessibility. Today the building is fully occupied. Energy costs have been reduced significantly.
The United States Custom House has witnessed many important events. The U.S. Customs Service was established in 1789. It moved into this building in 1934. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011.
The United States Custom House stands as a proud landmark. It reminds us of Philadelphia’s history its architectural achievements and its economic resilience.