William R. Cotter Federal Building

135 High Street
Hartford, CT 06103
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The William R. Cotter Federal Building in downtown Hartford, Connecticut is an excellent example of Neoclassical architecture. Its architects adopted traditional classical architectural forms while abandoning excessive interior ornament in favor of Art Deco’s more stylized decorative components. In 1982, the federal government renamed the building in honor of Congressman William R. Cotter, who represented the First District of Connecticut from 1971 until his death in 1981.

Public Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (except federal holidays)
Public Access: Security screening required
Amenities: Vending machines, lunch area
Key Tenants: Internal Revenue Service, Social Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. General Services Administration

Parking and Public Transportation

CTtransit Bus, Amtrak Railroad Station 0.2 miles away, and taxis available. Parking is also available in nearby lots.

History and Architectural Features

Designed in 1930 by architects Malmfeldt, Adams and Prentice, the William R. Cotter Federal Building was one of the first buildings constructed during the ambitious public works program generated by the depression. Replacing the old Second Empire Post Office, located a half mile away at the Old State House, it was originally constructed in 1931-1933 as the new post office, courthouse and federal office building. Major interior renovations to the federal building occurred in 1964 and 1978 after the courts and post office vacated the location. It was acquired by GSA in 1978.

Landmark Status

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places