Key West in Monroe County, Florida — The American South (South Atlantic)

Custom House

— Circa 1891 —

Photographed by James Hulse, January 11, 2026

1. Custom House Marker

Inscription. This beautiful building was erected in 1891, replacing the original 1833 wood-framed structure. Built in the Richardsonian Romanesque architectural style, its brick walls and striking arches reflect Key West's 19th century wealth from its lucrative trade routes, maritime industries, and the prominence of its growing population. Thousands of cases were heard at the Custom House, ranging from charges against rum-runners to ship salvaging claims. The most significant proceedings dealt with the 1898 sinking of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor which led to the Spanish-American War.

Erected by Key West Historic Marker and Key West Art and Historical Society. (Marker Number 71.)

Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Notable Buildings. A significant historical year for this entry is 1891.

Location. 24° 33.491′ N, 81° 48.419′ W. Marker is in Key West, Florida, in Monroe County. It is at the intersection of Front Street and Greene Street, on the left when traveling north on Front Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 269 Front St, Key West FL 33040, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally,

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this marker is on the Florida Keys.

It is also in the American South

and on the Gulf Coast.

Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region,

North America,

a Gulf of Mexico state,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain,

the territory of the Mississippian Culture,

one of the Confederate States of America,

and the Antebellum South.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Key West's Working Waterfront (here, next to this marker); Key West Custom House (here, next to this marker); Sunken Treasure (within shouting distance of this marker); Anchors (1622) (within shouting distance of this marker); Clinton Square (within shouting distance of this marker); Navy Club of Key West Monument (within shouting distance of this marker); Naval Depot and Storehouse-Building One-U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters (within shouting distance of this marker); Mallory Homesite (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Key West.

Photographed by James Hulse, January 11, 2026

2. Custom House Marker

The marker is located at the southern entrance to the Custom House.

Photographed by James Hulse, January 11, 2026

3. Custom House Marker

The side view of the house from the street. The markers are located on the left side of the building.

Photographed by James Hulse, January 11, 2026

4. Custom House Marker

The front view of the building from the east side.

Credits. This page was last revised on February 7, 2026. It was originally submitted on February 6, 2026, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas. This page has been viewed 56 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on February 7, 2026, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas.