Alexander Hamilton
U.S. Custom House
Join Royal Oak for an in-depth look at the unique architecture and exquisite beauty of the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House (now home of the National Museum of the American Indian–New York). Designed by famed architect Cass Gilbert and completed in 1907, the Custom House is one of the most splendid Beaux Arts buildings in New York, as well as a National Historic Landmark.
The vast seven-story structure covers three blocks in lower Manhattan, and the design reflects the aesthetic ideals of the City Beautiful movement, which promoted civic patriotism, urban economics and beauty. On the building’s exterior sit four monumental sculptures representing America, Asia, Europe, and Africa by Daniel Chester French. Shells, marine creatures, and sea motifs abound throughout the interior, a tribute to New York’s preeminence as a seaport.
The immense arch of the elliptical rotunda was built by Spanish-American engineer Rafael Guastavino, whose ingenious design allowed the rotunda’s 140-ton skylight to be constructed without visible signs of support. Between the skylight and the dome’s entablature are murals by artist Reginald Marsh depicting early explorers of the Americas and ships entering New York Harbor.
The tour will include a visit to the Collector’s Office, not normally accessible to the public. The Collector’s Office features oak-paneled walls by Tiffany Studios and a gilded coffered ceiling.
Daniel Chester French ‘Africa’ statue in front of the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Customs House. ©Carol M. Highsmith
