Merchants National Bank (Saint Paul) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Merchants National Bank
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 Location in Minnesota
Location in the United States
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| Location | 366-368 Jackson Street Saint Paul, Minnesota |
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| Built | 1892 |
| Architect | Edward Bassford |
| Architectural style | Richardsonian Romanesque |
| NRHP reference No. | 74001036 |
| Added to NRHP | December 19, 1974 |
The Merchants National Bank building, also known as the Brooks Building, is an important historical building in Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States. It first opened in 1892. This building was a busy financial center in the Lowertown area of Saint Paul. It stands at the corner of Jackson Street and Fifth Street.
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A Look at the Building's Design
The Merchants National Bank building was designed by an architect named Edward Bassford. He used a special style called Richardsonian Romanesque. This style often features strong, heavy stone walls and rounded arches. The building is made from sandstone, which gives it a solid and grand look. It has four stories.
When it first opened, the ground floor was home to an important bank. The floors above were used as offices, especially for lawyers.
Famous People Who Worked Here
Many people who later became very famous had their offices in this building. They went on to achieve great things in Minnesota and even across the United States. Some of these important figures include:
- Cushman Kellogg Davis: He became a U.S. Senator for Minnesota.
- Cordenio Severance: A well-known lawyer and diplomat.
- Frank B. Kellogg: He served as a U.S. Senator and later as the U.S. Secretary of State. He even won the Nobel Peace Prize!
- Pierce Butler: He became a Justice on the U.S. Supreme Court.
- William D. Mitchell: He served as the U.S. Attorney General.
It's pretty cool that so many influential people started their careers or worked in this very building!
A Building with Many Names
Over the years, this historic building has been known by a few different names. For a long time, people called it the McColl Building. Later, a person named David A. Brooks carefully worked to restore and fix up the building. Because of his efforts, the building is now known by his family name, the Brooks Building.
Why is it Important?
The Merchants National Bank building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is recognized by the U.S. government as a place that is important to American history, architecture, or culture. Being on this list helps protect the building and makes sure its history is remembered for future generations.
