Stop 16: First National Bank Building – 15 Broadway
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This bank was built in 1926 in the emerging Art Deco or Moderne style. The strong vertical thrust of the projecting piers, combined with the absence of a traditional cornice, lends the 6-story building an aura of soaring height. Though the street-level facade and the windows have been altered, the original masonry piers and relief decoration remain.
The carved stone marquee over the front entrance (now covered) proclaimed it “The oldest bank in North Dakota.” Louis B. Hanna founded the First National Bank in 1878. He went on to serve in Congress and as governor of the state.
First National Bank was previously located at 602 Main Avenue.