Located at the junction of Main and Broad Streets, it has been a focal point of Bangor's economy and business since the city's incorporation in 1834.

The district includes seven buildings reflective of its appearance in the late 19th and early 20th centuries; it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

West Market Square was a central focal point of Bangor's commercial business activity into the 20th century.

Three of the buildings are Second Empire in style, including the individually-listed Wheelwright Block, which anchors the square at the northern end.

All of these buildings are brick with stone and wood trim elements, and are four stories in height, except the five-story Wheelwright Block.