Designed by noted Salem builder Samuel McIntire and built in 1805–1807, it is an excellent instance of a public Federal style building.

It was built as a social space for the leading families of Salem, and was named for Founding Father and Federalist Party leader Alexander Hamilton.

The entrance facade is five bays wide, with a center entry consisting of double doors sheltered by a Greek Revival porch added c. 1845.

The first floor of the long side (facing Chestnut Street) consists of six bays, of which five are windows and one is a door.

The second level ballroom features an unusual curved balcony and a sprung floor suitable for dancing.