It is located in the heart of downtown Pittsfield, facing Park Square across North Street.

Built in 1868, it is one of a trio of Second Empire buildings designed by Louis Weisbsein, a Boston architect, whose style influenced later construction in the city.

All three buildings originally featured mansard roofs, and were influential on subsequent architecture in downtown Pittsfield.

The building was extended westward in 1906, in work designed by Pittsfield architect Henry Seaver.

In 1911 the mansard roof was removed and replaced by two additional stories, to plans by Joseph McArthur Vance.