4. James Watson House

Located next to the Shrine of Elizabeth Ann Seton (above left) is the home of merchant James B. Watson. The James Watson House, a national and city landmark, is the last remaining Federal townhouse that used to line State Street. The eastern portion of the building was built in 1793. In 1806, Watson sold 7 State Street to Moses Rogers, another merchant, who combined it with the residence next door.

To unify the two structures, which did not line up with each other, Rogers built a portico. He is said to have made the columns from the masts of his own fleet of merchant ships, which he no longer needed when he switched to steam power.

The James Watson House is located at 7 State Street.