Machias Post Office and Customhouse Overview and Details

The Machias Post Office and Customhouse is a historic building located in Machias, Maine. It was built in 1845.

This building served as both a post office and a customhouse, handling mail and customs duties for the area. The post office was a crucial hub for communication, especially for the local fishing and trade industries.

The customhouse, on the other hand, was responsible for collecting tariffs and duties on imported goods. This was a significant source of revenue for the federal government at the time.

Additional reading: Customhouse and Post Office (Washington, D.C.)

The Machias Post Office and Customhouse is located in Machias, Maine.

Machias is a small town in Washington County, Maine, situated near the coast.

The post office and customhouse were built in the early 19th century.

It's worth noting that the exact date of construction is not specified in the article.

The building's location on the waterfront reflects its importance as a hub for trade and commerce during that time.

The customhouse was a key part of the building, handling customs and duties for ships arriving in the port.

The Machias Post Office and Customhouse is a beautiful two-story red brick building, topped by a hip roof and set on a granite foundation. It's located at the western corner of Center Street and Main Street (United States Route 1) in the heart of Machias' downtown area.

The building's main facade faces Main Street and is a symmetrical three bays wide, with the center bay projecting slightly and capped by a fully pedimented gable. This design creates a sense of balance and harmony.

One principal entrance is on the first floor of the center bay, set in a round-arch opening with keystone and pilastered columns. The entrance is a beautiful feature that adds to the building's charm.

Windows are set in round-arch openings on the first floor and segmented-arch openings on the second, with stone sills and keystones. This thoughtful design allows for natural light to pour in and illuminates the interior spaces.

The Center Street facade is five bays wide, with a similar arrangement and styling of doors and windows. This consistency in design creates a sense of cohesion and flow.

The building's materials were sourced locally to save costs, which is a great example of resourcefulness and community involvement.