Of ranking historical importance, this building was completed by the state in November 1850 at a cost of exactly $8,283.37. Here we're the offices of the Canal Collector and the Inspector of Boats, although its purpose was far from that of an office building. Beneath the second story, behind the massive columns, passed the traffic of the booming Erie and Oswego Canals; necessarily so, for here were determined the tolls. Using the displacement principle, the stricture was built as a form of drydock and was often used as such for minor repairs.

Ardhitecturally, we are prepared for this building and its exaggerated echoing of the Babcock house in the use of brackets. So persistent as to assume a lacy appearance, the brackets are overpowering although directly the result of clever brickwork. (See figure six). The substantial square coltuans are thoroughly suited and wisely chosen with the principle interest lying, in their extremely rare odd number. This use of nine columns, alone should make for national prominence, but there is another unusual feature.

Here are used four pediments, not just one or two. Smartly placed at right angles, they afford larger attic space and a building completely presentable from any angle.

Obviously the product of a brilliant mind, the building has unfortunately lost much of its "raison d'etre" in the destruction of the canal., but nevertheless remains as another landmark of the Revival in Syracuse.

Figures two and three from E. Q. Williams collection