Statement of Significance (as of designation - November 13, 1966):
Built by Josiah Quincy, mayor of Boston (1823-28) and later president of Harvard, to replace Faneuil Hall market facilities. One of the most impressive large-scale market complexes built in the U.S. in the first half of the 19th century. The central building uses two major structural innovations of the period: cast-iron columns for interior support and a massive serial post-and-lintel system for exterior walls.