The Hamilton

978 Chapel Street is a Neo-classical revival building originally constructed in 1923, although designed to look older during a period in which architectural modernism was taking shape. The building is a masonry load bearing structure by Brown and Von Beren architects, with ornamental reliefs, simulated balconies, Corinthian pilasters, and Neo-classical dentils. Ornamental lettering on the building christens it “The Hamilton,” in honor of its commissioner, William H. Hamilton, a merchant originally from Montreal who operated the Hamilton Cloak and Gown department store to sell fine women’s apparel. Upon it’s construction Hamilton’s was the largest retailer of its kind in the United States.