First National Bank of Long Beach facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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First National Bank of Long Beach
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The building in 2007
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 Location in the Los Angeles metropolitan area
Location in California
Location in the United States
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| Location | 101--125 Pine Ave |
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| Nearest city | Long Beach, California |
| Built | 1906 |
| Architect | Train & Williams |
| NRHP reference No. | 90001432 |
| Added to NRHP | September 13, 1990 |
The First National Bank of Long Beach building is a very old and important structure in downtown Long Beach, California. It is also known as the Metropolitan Building or the Enloe Building. This historic building is so special that it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is recognized for its history and unique design.
Contents
Building History and Design
The building you see today was completed in 1906. Before this, a smaller, three-story bank stood in the same spot. The famous architects Train and Williams designed this grander building.
The Iconic Clock Tower
A special clock tower was added in 1907. It features a huge clock face that is six feet across! This tower makes the building easy to spot.
Architectural Style
The building was designed in a style called French Renaissance Revival. This means it looks like buildings from the French Renaissance period. It uses bright yellow bricks on the sides facing the street. The other two sides use common red bricks.
Who Used the Building?
Over the years, many different banks have used this building. It was a busy place for people to do their banking.
- The First National Bank of Long Beach used it from 1906 to 1925.
- Then, The California National Bank of Long Beach took over from 1925 to 1929.
- After that, California First National Bank of Long Beach was there from 1929 to 1936.
- Finally, Bank of America, National Trust & Savings Association used the building from 1936 until sometime in the 1960s.
Changes and Restoration
In the 1950s, some of the building's original fancy decorations were removed or covered up. This was part of an effort to make the building look more modern.
Bringing Back the Original Look
However, in the 1980s, there was a project to bring the building back to its original beautiful look. They also repaired the clock tower. This restoration helped save the building's historic charm.
Current Use and Future Plans
Since 1990, the ground floor of the building has been home to L'Opera Ristorante, a popular restaurant. In 2014, the building was bought for $10.9 million. In 2024, the owner shared plans to turn the building into 70 apartments. They also planned to add a large rooftop deck, about 3,600 square feet, for people to enjoy.
Images for kids
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A postcard showing Pine Street, from the California Historical Society.
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First Street with the First National Bank building in the background, 1910.
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The building on Armistice Day, 1920.
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See also
- List of City of Long Beach Historic Landmarks
