John W. McCormack Post Office and Courthouse – Boston, MA

John W. McCormack Post Office and Courthouse

A Landmark of Federal Service

The John W. McCormack Post Office and Courthouse is a prominent Art Deco skyscraper located in the heart of Boston’s Financial District at Post Office Square. Completed in 1933, this 22-story building serves as a vital hub for federal operations in New England. It was renamed in honor of John W. McCormack, a former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. The building is instantly recognizable by its granite facade and setbacks, characteristic of the era’s architectural style. It stands on the site of the former 1885 Post Office and Sub-Treasury building.

Federal Courts and Agencies

The facility houses several critical government institutions, most notably the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts. It is also home to regional offices for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and maintains a functioning U.S. Post Office on the ground level. The Bankruptcy Court handles petitions under Chapters 7, 11, and 13 of the Bankruptcy Code, providing a forum for debtors and creditors to resolve financial insolvencies. The building also contains office space for various other federal entities, ensuring a centralized location for government business.

Security and Access

As a federal facility, security at the John W. McCormack Building is strictly enforced by the Federal Protective Service and U.S. Marshals. All visitors, including those visiting the Post Office or the Courts, must pass through security screening which includes metal detectors and x-ray inspection of bags. Valid government-issued photo identification is required for entry to the upper floors and courtrooms. Electronics policies vary by agency, but generally, cameras and recording devices are prohibited in court areas.