First Corps of Cadets Armory

Out of place amid Boston’s Colonial, Federal and Victorian architecture, this medieval castle sits on a prominent corner. Complete with castle towers, oriel turrets and parapet walls, the building was constructed in 1891 as an armory for a volunteer militia of wealthy merchants and professionals. Although the First Corps of Cadets was originally founded to guard the governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, at the end of the 19th century the group was more concerned with immigrant revolts and lower-class riots (they especially feared the Irish Catholics). Which explains why they constructed this defensive fortress. The castle now houses a swanky steakhouse; the gunroom, social hall and museum floor now contain opulent dining rooms, still catering to the likes of the cadets.