It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1973 for its significance as an early masterwork of one of the country's first recognized master builders.

In about 1778, he formed a partnership with Aaron Waite, and purchased a two-gun schooner, the Greyhound, to serve as a privateer against British merchant vessels in the Revolutionary War.

Waite and Peirce were also major investors in the newly incorporated Beverly Bank, and were members of Salem's merchant aristocracy.

[13] This was altered in some portions in 1801, when Peirce again hired McIntire to redo the hallway east parlor in preparation for the wedding of his daughter Sally to George Nichols.

[12][9] The house property was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1968,[1] cited as a particularly elegant example of late Georgian craftsmanship, and for its association with McIntire.

The front entry is in the center bay (of five), and is sheltered by a pedimented porch supported by Doric columns set on a brownstone step.