Old Middletown U.S. Post Office

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name =U.S. Post Office
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location =291 Main St.
Middletown, Connecticut
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added =April 12, 1982
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refnum = 82004338
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governing_body = Address: 291 Main Street, Middletown, Connecticut
Style: Renaissance Revival
Date of Construction: 1916
Materials: Limestone
Structural System: Load Bearing Masonry
Architect: James A. Wetmore
Builder: W. H. Frissell & Co. of New York City
Historic Use: Post Office
Current Use: Office Space

Relationship to Surroundings

This fine, two story example of the Renaissance Revival style is located on the south west corner of Court and Main Streets facing the Connecticut River. Across Court Street to the north is the massive Liberty Bank building and to its south across a parking lot; is the Bank of America building. Together these three buildings give this section of the central business district a solid and classical look.

Significance

In 1911, the United States Government decided to build a new Post Office facilities in Middletown. Preparations for construction began shortly thereafter. The selection of the building's location was a topic of much controversy. The Government finally chose this location, Federally owned since 1841, in the center of Middletown's commercial and financial district.

Contemporary sources indicate that the new Post Office was a source of civic pride for the citizens of Middletown. Its facade of smooth limestone distinguished it in a city center where brick and Portland brownstone were the common building materials. the classical facade displays a two story arrangement of arched windows and pilasters supporting an elaborate entablature. The interior features a large two story open lobby.

The old Post Office ceased operation in 1977, ending 136 years of Federal use of that site.

Current Use and Condition

Liberty Bank uses this building as office space and keeps the building is good condition.

References

Middletown, Connecticut Historical and Architectural Resources. Volume III, Card Number 167. Elizabeth Loomis. June, 1978.