The pier and its associated buildings were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2017.

The two main buildings feature high arched hallways and 44 storefronts for the dealers, handlers, and other businesses engaged in fishery-related activities.

[1] Prior to construction of this facility, Boston's fishing industry was based at facilities leased on T Wharf, an appendage to the Long Wharf that was a central feature of the city's working waterfront for decades.

Overall management of the industry was overseen by the Boston Fish Market Association.

With its lease expiring in 1909, an agreement was made between the association, city, and state for the construction of a dedicated pier on the South Boston waterfront.