Built in 1866, it is a prominent local example of Second Empire architecture, and a surviving example of the city's school planning in the post-Civil War period.

The main entrance is recessed in the center bay, in a segmented-arch opening framed by shouldered stone surround with keystone.

The interior, now converted into residences, historically was divided into four spaces on each floor, organized around a central stair.

[2] The school was built in 1866, when the city of Charlestown (then separate from Boston) was growing, and there was more widespread interest in quality education.

Designed by James H. Rand, a local architect, it exemplified new thinking about school facilities, including improved lighting and ventilation for classrooms, and the use of fireproof materials in its construction.