The oldest known commercial structure in the state, the John Hancock Warehouse is located on the north bank of the York River, just east of Sewall's Bridge. The building is two stories, constructed using mortise and tenoned beams. It is sheathed in wood shingles and contains doors on three sides. The windows are located on the upper floors and contain multi-paned sashes. The second floor can be accessed via the interior staircase or a ramp on the north side. Hancock, after inheriting his uncles import and export business in 1764, became one of the wealthiest men in the colonies and is best known for his distinctive signature on the Declaration of Independence. He co-owned the warehouse with Joseph Tucker, along with an adjacent wharf and store. The York warehouse is one of several that he owned up and down the Maine coast. More interested in politics than commerce, it is possible he never visited the property. After his death, Tucker bought Hancocks share of the warehouse. It is currently owned by the Old York Historical Society.
Year Listed: 1973
For more information: https://npgallery.nps.gov/NRHP/AssetDetail?assetID=b36e2db1-5d72-4235-ba46-57e315f69e64