City National Bank (Galveston, Texas) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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City National Bank
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City National Bank
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 City National Bank
Location in Texas
City National Bank
Location in the United States
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| Location | 2219 Market St. Galveston, Texas |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1920 |
| Architect | Weary & Alford Company |
| Architectural style | Classical Revival |
| MPS | Central Business District MRACentral Business District MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 84001680 |
| Added to NRHP | August 14, 1984 |
The City National Bank building is a historic landmark in Galveston, Texas. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which means it's an important part of American history. The bank was started in December 1907 by William Lewis Moody Jr.. The impressive building you see today was finished in 1920.
In 1953, the bank changed its name to Moody National Bank to honor its founder. For many years, the building was home to the Galveston County Historical Museum. However, in 2008, Hurricane Ike caused a lot of damage. After the hurricane, the museum's collections were moved to the Galveston County Courthouse. Since then, the old City National Bank building has not been used.
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A Look Back: The Bank's Story
The City National Bank first opened in a rented space in the Trust Building. It later moved to another location before its grand new building was ready.
Building a Landmark
William Lewis Moody Jr. wanted a special new home for his bank. He ordered the construction of this building between 1919 and 1920. It cost $200,000, which was a lot of money back then! The building was designed in a style called Classical Revival. This means it looks like ancient Greek and Roman buildings. It has tall Corinthian columns and a fancy entrance with a triangular top, called a pedimented portico. Inside, the ceiling is curved like a barrel.
The Moody family also helped build other big structures in Galveston. These included the Medical Arts Building and the Jean Lafitte Hotel. The hotel is also a historic landmark. Close by, you can see the U.S. National Bank building. It's an 11-story skyscraper built in an Italian Renaissance style.
From Bank to Museum
William Lewis Moody Jr. passed away in 1954. His daughter, Mary Moody Northen, took over the family's financial businesses. She became the president of Moody National Bank. In 1972, she gave the historic bank building to Galveston County.
Six years later, in 1978, the building opened its doors as the Galveston County Historical Museum. It was a place where people could learn about the area's past.
Hurricane Ike and a New Chapter
In 2008, Hurricane Ike hit Galveston. The storm severely damaged the museum's air conditioning and electrical systems. Because of this, the museum had to move its exhibits and artifacts. They found a new home at the Galveston County Courthouse.
The Moody National Bank eventually needed more space as it grew. So, the bank built a new facility at 2302 Post Office Street, where it is still located today. The original 1920 building, which had been donated to Galveston County, has been empty since the hurricane.
The City National Bank building was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. This recognized its importance as a historic site in the city.
See also
