Union Bank (Tallahassee, Florida) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Union Bank
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Union Bank
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 Location in Florida
Location in the United States
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| Location | Tallahassee, Florida |
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| NRHP reference No. | 71000242 |
| Added to NRHP | February 24, 1971 |
The Union Bank building in Tallahassee, Florida, is a very old and important place. It was built in 1841 and is the oldest bank building still standing in Florida. You can find it at Apalachee Parkway and Calhoun Street. Today, it's not a bank anymore. It's a special museum and research center that teaches about African American history. On February 24, 1971, this building was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's recognized as an important historic site in the United States.
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What is the History of the Union Bank?
The Union Bank building was finished in 1841. It was Tallahassee's very first bank. This happened when Florida was still a territory, not yet a state. The bank was created to help pay for large cotton plantations in the area.
Why Did the Bank Close?
The bank closed its doors in 1843. This was because of several problems. The Seminole Wars were happening, which caused a lot of trouble. Also, the bank had some money problems. A big economic downturn called the Panic of 1837 also made things difficult.
Who Owned the Bank After It Closed?
In 1847, two cotton plantation owners, William Bailey and Isaac Mitchell, bought the bank building.
What Happened to the Building After the Civil War?
After the American Civil War, the bank building got a new purpose. In 1868, it became the Freedman's Savings and Trust Company. This bank helped formerly enslaved people manage their money. Over the years, the building was used for many different things. It was a church, a store for animal feed, an art house, and even a coffee shop. It also served as a dance studio, a locksmith's shop, a beauty salon, and a shoe factory.
Who Was Willis Jiles?
Willis Jiles (1874 - 1963) was a shoemaker. He had his shoe repair shop in the Union Bank building during the 1920s. Willis Jiles was a smart man who went to the Tuskegee Institute. His children, with his wife Sadie, also went to college. They studied at Florida A&M University and Xavier University.
Why Was the Union Bank Building Moved?
In 1971, the Union Bank building was moved from its first spot. It used to be on Adams Street. It was carefully moved to its current location, just east of the Capitol building. This new spot is on Apalachee Parkway and Calhoun Avenue. After it was moved, the building was fixed up and restored. It then opened as a museum in 1984.
What is the Southeastern Regional Black Archives?
Today, the Union Bank building is part of the Florida A&M University Southeastern Regional Black Archives, Research Center and Museum. It's also known as the Capitol Complex Extension Branch of the Southeastern Regional Black Archives.
What Can You See at the Museum?
The museum is open to everyone, including school groups, during weekdays. Inside, you can see many items and documents. These show the rich history and culture of Black people in Florida. The staff at the Black Archives also offer special programs for the public. The main location for the Southeastern Regional Black Archives is at the Carnegie Library at FAMU.
