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The First National Bank Building in Smith Center, Kansas, at 100 S. Main, was built in 1889. It was the second building used by the oldest bank in the county, and served until a new bank building was constructed in 1930.[2] It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2006.[1]

It has a red brick and stone block exterior.[3]

It was deemed significant for its Richardsonian Romanesque architecture and substantial presence in its community. It "exhibits all of the key characteristics of the style: round-headed Romanesque arches executed in the windows and doors, an entryway that has a round-headed arch springing from short squat columns, a recessed entrance, varied rustication, and cylindrical towers with conical caps embedded in the walling."[2]

In 2014, a local resident bought the building and with the help of local and state organizations, was able to preserve and renovate the building.[4] The hope of the owner was to restore the building as a hub for downtown businesses.

References

  1. ^ a b "National Register Information System – (#06001163)". National Register of Historic Places. National Park Service. November 2, 2013.
  2. ^ a b Kathy L. Morgan (July 25, 2005). "National Register of Historic Places Registration: First National Bank Building / 183-5120-5120-0001". National Park Service. Retrieved January 11, 2022. The nomination was accompanied by eight photos which are not included in the PDF nomination document.
  3. ^ "Kansas Historic Resources Inventory: First National Bank Building". Kansas Historical Society. Retrieved February 27, 2022.
  4. ^ Unruh, Tim (December 28, 2014). "Farmer gives historic building new life in Smith Center". Salina Journal. Retrieved February 28, 2022.