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The Porter Houses are probably the oldest surviving buildings in the South End. Following the Revolutionary War, Washington Street was slowly developed with similar graceful Federal residences. The architect is unknown, but Charles Bulfinch is a likely candidate. In his position as the head of the selectmen, he signed the deed of covenant for these houses as well as others on Washington Street, requiring all buildings constructed on the thoroughfare to be of brick or stone, at least three stories high, and set back from the street. After serving as a commercial building, a bar, and then standing vacant for many years, it was restored as condominiums in 2001.