Chester Harding House, Boston

Situated across from the Massachusetts State House on Beacon Hill, this four-story townhouse, constructed in the Federal architectural style, was originally built as a private residence by real estate developer Thomas Fletcher in 1808, during a time when Park Street and Beacon Street were lined with dilapidated public buildings.

Marked by a commemorative plaque on its left side, it gained recognition as a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1965 and is celebrated for its connection to the renowned American portrait painter, Chester Harding, who purchased the house in 1826 and lived here until 1830. Although not as famous today as Gilbert Stuart, Harding enjoyed significant acclaim during his time, having completed over 1,000 portraits throughout his career. In fact, Stuart once lamented that "Harding Fever" had overshadowed his own work.

The house still serves as the headquarters of the Boston Bar Association, which acquired the building in 1962; their logo embellishes the front door. Two larger structures now flank the townhouse: the six-story Claflin Building, originally constructed as a commercial building in 1873 but later converted into luxury condominiums, and the eight-story Congregational House, erected in 1998.
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