The two-story wood-frame building was designed by New Hampshire architect Alvah T. Ramsdell, and built in 1893 to house a variety of municipal services, and an auditorium.

Although the building has been clad in vinyl siding, some of its original Victorian trim is still in place, along the main roof eave and that of the tower.

The main entrance is in the base of the tower facing north, sheltered by a gabled porch with round Ionic columns set on brick piers.

The basement level, accessible from 4th Street, has a garage door opening which was originally used to house fire equipment.

Established in 1849 by separation from Somersworth, the town's municipal functions were held in a variety of private spaces prior to the construction of this building.