1
EXHIBIT B
HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE
The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville (1835-1853)-
The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville was established by the
General Assembly on January 10 18351 Despite the lack of a building to house the bank the
state appointed a board of directors to oversee the bankrsquos progress on January 9 1835 members
included Bartley M Lowe (President) Thomas Brandon James Bradley Hugh Caperton
Richard Campbell Daniel Coleman James J Donegan Stephen S Ewing Alva Finley Thomas
Fearn Arthur F Hopkins Francis T Mastin Benjamin Patterson Edward W Parker John Read
Henry Stokes and Preston Yeatman2 Documentary evidence shows that on February 25 1835
the directors of the Branch Bank appointed a committee comprised of Stephen S Ewing
Thomas Fearn and Benjamin Patteson ldquoto receive proposals for the purchase of a building or lot
suitable for a Bank Houserdquo3 According to a report from the committee on March 14 1835
ldquoseveral propositions from different individualsrdquo had been received4 The committee however
was unable to secure an appropriate location for the bank by April 22 1835 and was then
appointed ldquoto procure a temporary Banking House so soon as the State bonds may be sold and
have it properly prepared for businessrdquo5 Starting in May of 1835 the bank began renting a
space for $25000 a year (see figure 7)6 A copy of a report dated 1
st October 1835 from the
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama to the Speaker of the House of Representatives of
the State of Alabama found in the January 26 1836 addition of the Southern Advocate shows
that the bank was in operation7
Although the bank was in operation corresponding deeds for the plots of land at the
corner of Bank Row (now West Side Square) and Fountain Row (now Fountain Circle) show
that the bank had not yet acquired the site that the current bank building now stands on
1 Alexander B Meek comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama (Alabama
White amp Snow 1841) 19
2 E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County
AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
3 William H Brantley Banking In Alabama 1816-1860 vol I (Private Publisher 1961) 376-377 The
above quotation according to Brantley was pulled from a book that originally belonged to Samuel Chapman Lacy and was made available courtesy of Maud McClure Kelly
4 Brantley 377
5 Ibid
6 Ibid
7 Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern Advocate Vol XI
no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836 microfilm roll 12
2
Figure 1 Excerpt of January 26 1836 newspaper article Document B List of the Furniture bought for the Branch of
the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville 1835 Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
3
Figure 2 Excerpt of January 26 1836 newspaper article Document C Statement of expenses of the Branch of the
Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville 1835 Highlighted areas state ldquoG amp G W Steel for repairing bank
houserdquo ldquo6 morsquos rent for bank house from 1st of May at $250 per year 12500rdquo and ldquoAdvertising proposals for
building banking house (twice) 900rdquo Image courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
4
Property for the construction of the new Branch Bank building was purchased from four
separate property owners between March and December of 1837 The dates of purchase are as
follows
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to the Branch of the Bank of the State
of Alabama at Huntsville two hundred and eighty eight square yards for the sum
of $200000 on March 3 18378
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to the Branch of the Bank of the State
of Alabama at Huntsville three ldquocertain lots pieces or parcels of groundrdquo for the
sum of $800000 on March 15 18379
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State
of Alabama at Huntsville a parcel of ground for the sum of $40000 on March 24
183710
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville a certain lot of land for the sum of $200000 on December
4 183711
Primary documentation covering the construction of the bank is fragmented making the
exact details unclear Future examination of records at the Alabama Department of Archives and
History may shed more light on the date of construction and the early years of the bank building
According to William H Brantleyrsquos book Banking in Alabama 1816-1860 ldquothe only original
record available which gives any detail of the construction of the bank house is an old book the
property of Samuel Chapman Lacyrdquo12
The last know owner of the said Lacy book was Maud
McClure Kelly13
A cursory study shows that Maud McClure Kelly was Evelyn Letitia Lacy
Kellyrsquos (Samuel Chapman Lacyrsquos daughter) sister-in-law Maud likely acquired the book from
Evelyn
8 Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville
Deed Book Q (Huntsville March 3 1837) 424
9 Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q (Huntsville March 15 1837) 436
10 Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q (Huntsville March 24 1837) 437
11 Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q (Huntsville December 4 1837) 466
12 Brantley 377
13
Brantley 477
5
Efforts to locate the account book have been
unfruitful to date14
According to Brantley the earliest entry
in the Lacy book is a payment made to G amp G
W Steele on July 8 1837 for vault doors
Several entries of payments made to Steele
spanning the years of 1837-1840 highlight the
progress being made on the bankrsquos construction
A receipt entry dated September 14 1840 for the
amount of $106380 was made out to the Steele
brothers ldquoin full of all demands for building the
Bank Houserdquo15
According to Brantley the final
entry in the book reads ldquoby amount of your bill
for building the Banking House as settled by the
Board receipted and filedhellip$3414133rdquo16
Figure 3 Maude McClure Kelly Image courtesy
of Ancestrycom
Architect George Steele-
Considered to be the premiere antebellum architect for the city of Huntsville George
Gilliam Steele was born on April 1 1798 to George and Sally Gilliam Steele in Bedford County
Virginia Steelersquos early life remains largely shrouded and there are no known records that Steele
received any formal architectural training according to his obituary he was self-taught17
Steele
14
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t66885873_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015) Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordamptid=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015) Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birmingham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst (accessed May 07 2015)
15
Brantley 377 16
Ibid 17
Linda Bayer George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation (Spring 1979) 4 F Charles Vaughn Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no 1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-13 Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
6
came to Huntsville from Virginia around 1818 and soon
after began work as a brick-builder In December 1823
Steele married Eliza Ann Weaver (1808-1891)18
The two
had eight children Matthew W Steele (1824-1907) John
F Steele (1826-1903) George G Steele (1828-1859)
Sallie Fleming Steele (1829-1891) Mary Eliza Steele
(1832-1834) Ellen Elizabeth Steele (1832-1834) William
Angelo Steele (1836-1912) and Susan Eliza Steele (1839-
1913)19
Steele continued to expand his professional
repertoire to include architectural design One of his first
designs was a house he built for himself in 1824 located
at 519 Randolph Avenue Steele is also credited with the
design of the Feeney House (414 Randolph Avenue) the
Yeatman House (528 Adams Street) the Cox House (311
Lincoln Street) the Cabaniss House (603 Randolph
Avenue) the second Madison County Courthouse (no
longer extant) Mary Bibbrsquos Mausoleum (Maple Hill
Cemetery) Oak Place (808 Maysville Road) Pope
Mansion (403 Echols Avenue) the old Episcopal
binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
18
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p195656965_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
19 Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Figure 4 George Gilliam Steele picture
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County
Public Library
7
Church of the Nativity on the corner of Eustis and Greene (no longer extant) the Fearn House
(517 Franklin Avenue) the Figures House (423 Randolph Avenue) the Presidentrsquos House (413
Randolph Avenue) Huntsville Female College (no longer extant) and Huntsville Female
Seminary School (no longer extant) George Steele died on October 21 1855 and was buried in
Maple Hill Cemetery20
His obituary in the ldquoSouthern Advocaterdquo read
Capt George Steele was born in Virginia in Bedford County on the ___
He resided up to his death the 21st inst in his 58
th year It is not the language of
the idle panegyric to say that George Steele was a man of marked individuality ndash
of positive characteristics and of impressive being There was nothing passive
doubtful or unreliable about him He was open and bold in expression and
prompt and energetic in action ndash Upon all questions affecting private or public
W__ [well] he had an opinion and could be placed by the most casual observer
He was loyal and sure() to those who loved him abt() but to those men
who sought him sweet as summer He was a warm and confiding friend never
forgetting a favor or a kindness and ready to spend and be spent aid of those who
survived his confidence
Capt Steelersquos life was an active one He grappled with the stern realities of
existence at the very threshold of manhood Without the adventurous and _____
way through all obstacles and over powerful opposition He was
self-educated ndash physically mechanically mentally artistically Of an iron will
indomitable energy and keen sagacity he met difficulties but overcame them and
kept straight on in the goal of merited success He was eminently a practical man-
a cultivated Mechanic ndash a Master builder ndash an accomplished Architect He had
not only learnt the drudgery of this profession but even passed beyond and
became an undertaker a designer a creator His judgment his taste his artistic
skill have become institutional They are seen open to the light of day manifest
the most obtuse in the Public Buildings in Huntsville ndash the Bank Court House
Blossom Institute Female Seminary Episcopal and Cumberland Churches many
of the residences in town and his own beautiful and tastefully adorned mansion
Huntsville is noted abroad for its improvements and public buildings To no one
so much as George Steele is the town indebted for its reputation His advice his
taste his hand are visible everywhere and for the better too He looked not only
to the present but to the future in all that he advised planned or executed and
Huntsville will long have cause to be grateful to his memory
Capt Steele was of a warm generous impulsive nature He was not free of
faults who that is mortal is But they were mere specks in the pure gold of his
character ndash ldquoHis faults lie gently on himrdquo Menrsquos virtues we would have live in
brass and their evil manners write in water His public character is known and
appreciated in this community where he lived moved and had his being so long
as usefully ndash as just ___and liberal in his dealings
20
Bayer 5-21
8
It was at home that George Steele also lived to benefit others There he lavished
his kindness and provided care over all dependent on him A kind husband an
indulgent yet not foolish father and a good master was the center of his family ndash
spared no pains apart and no expense in whatever ministered to their welfare
comfort or happiness Knowing the advantages of education by the lack of them
in his youth all his children were trained in the path of knowledge at the best
institutions He labored upwards to improve to elevate to educate the hand the
heart the mind the manners
His life was a successful one ndash a boisterous backward unpromising Spring ndash a
g___ grieving warm Summer an abundant yet short Autumn his demise sunk
into his ___ and his untimely ___ cut him off ___ was Winter with him And that
was mortal of him ___ gone from us ndash ldquolarge was his bounty and his soul
sincererdquo Let us imitate him in all the great good in his character which we are
still ___ and with a knowledge that we too are mortal and erring creatures21
Steele has long been attributed to the design of the Branch Bank building but is not the
only person to leave his mark on the structure According to the Lacy account book the building
was built with the help of several local subcontractors carpenters and masons including James
M Venable who ldquocovered the bank with sundry coppersrdquo Hugh N Moore who completed the
carpentry work William Hale who completed the painting Edward T and R Parker who
ldquoprovided the iron railings and installed them Thomas and William Brandon who completed the
stone and brick work Justin Dyer who was a subcontractor for the Brandon brothers and
Frederick Elgin who completed the stucco work for the slave quarters22
21 Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
22
Brantley 377-378
9
The Panic of 1837
Figure 5 Political Cartoon by HR Robinson depicting the Panic of 1837 Print courtesy of the Library of
Congressrsquo Prints amp Photographs Catalog
Shortly after construction on the Branch Bank began the country experienced a large
scale panic known widely as the Panic of 1837 The Panic of 1837 has long been attributed to a
real estate bubble and inconsistent American banking policies The crisis began in 1836 when
the Bank of the United States lost its charter this in turn allowed the nationrsquos banks to issue
private banknotes unsupported by gold or silver Shortly thereafter President Andrew Jackson
passed the Specie Circular of 1836 This executive order was a reaction to excessive land
speculation and the use of unsupported paper money printed by sundry banks to purchase land
The order only allowed the purchase of government land using gold or silver By 1837 the
banks refused to redeem banknotes effectively shutting down commerce The initial Panic of
1837 and the subsequent depression that followed lasted for six-years23
The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville weathered this national
storm for a time In an annual report for the bank published in the November 18 1837 issue of
ldquoThe Democratrdquo Bank President Bartley M Lowe wrote
23
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012 httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
10
The statement of the ldquogeneral liabilities of the Bank and means to meet themrdquo
made without reference to the periods when those liabilities become due shows a
surplus of $16434442 Taking into consideration the late derangements in the
fiscal concerns of the country from the effects of which no banking institution
has been exempt a more favorable state of things could scarcely have been
anticipated and were it proper to close this communication here the friends of
this Branch might congratulate themselves on its prosperous condition24
All of the branches of the State Bank of Alabama including the branch at Huntsville
eventually succumbed to the pressures of the Panic of 183725
By February 4 1843 an Act
passed by the General Assembly allowed for the liquidation of the Branch of the Bank of the
State of Alabama at Huntsville26
After the Branch Bank at Huntsvillersquos charter expired January
1 1844 a commission was appointed in 1846 by order of the state legislature to ldquoonly continue
in operation for the security and collection of debts due to said Branch Bank and for the
settlement and liquidation of its affairsrdquo27
The committee completed its task by 1853 and the
bank building and land was sold in October of 185428
24
BM Lowe Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat (October 31 1837 Huntsville) 1
25 Linda Bayer George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief History 1
26
CC Clay comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama (Alabama Marmaduke J Slade 1843) 43
27
Bayer 1
28 The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z (Huntsville October 14
1854) 597Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z( Huntsville October 25
1854) 596 John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed Book BB
(Huntsville July 10 1857) 218-219 The deed dated July 10 1857 between John Whiting and Stephen Ewing is a later published document of an agreement made during the original purchase of the Bank property in 1837 A deed dated March 15 1837 between Stephen Ewing and the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville states that Ewing conveyed a parcel of land located on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row to the Branch Bank for the sum of $800000 The later deed dated July 101857 states ldquoMr Ewing having determined to take the House and lot owned by the Bank and receive the $1750 in exchange for the whole of his property on the bluff according to the proposition made to him at the last meeting_ Ordered that the President make to Mr Ewing a Deed for the lot sold to him and receive from him a Deed for the property sold by him to the bankrdquo The deed then goes on to say ldquoAnd whereas the said Stephen S Ewing afterwards on the 15
th day of March 1837 delivered
to the said Branch Bank a Deed of Conveyance of that date from him and his wife duly executed and acknowledged for the said property on the bluff And whereas no deed was ever made by the President of said Branch Bank or by any other person in pursuance of said resolution to the said Branch Bankrdquo It appears from these two records that Ewing made an agreement with the State Bank to exchange the property that he owned on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row for a plot of land and building that the Bank owned plus $175000 While Ewing held up his side of the agreement by creating a deed of sale in 1837 the Bank did not complete this task until 1857 after the Bank and land sold to the Nothern Bank of Alabama
11
The Northern Bank of Alabama and the Civil War (1852-1865)
Figure 6 Union occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1862 Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison
County Public Library
The Northern Bank of Alabama finalized the purchase of the bank house and lot in
October 1854 The bank remained in the possession of the Northern Bank of Alabama for fifteen
years Like the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville the Northern Bank of
Alabama was destined to face turmoil29
On April 12th
1861 the American Civil War tore
through the country marking the beginning of a tumultuous time in Huntsville
By and large Huntsville was a divided town prior to and during the Civil War
Huntsville composed of both landed gentry and yeoman farmers supported both Confederate
and Union sympathizers Despite the rift the fate of Huntsville like many towns and cities in
the south was irrevocably impacted by the Civil War30
Union troops led by General Ormsby M Mitchel seized control of Huntsville on the
morning of April 11 1862 Troops composed of the Indiana 5th
Independent Light Artillery 37th
29
Ibid 30
Taylor M Polites The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013 httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
12
Infantry the Illinois 19th
and 24th
Infantry and the Ohio 4th
Cavalry and 18th
Infantry led a
surprise attack on the city and Huntsville yielded to the encroaching Union Army with little
opposition31
One onlooker reported ldquothe clattering noise of the cavalry aroused them from their
slumber in the dawn of the morning and they flocked to door and window exclaiming with
blanched cheek and faltering tongue lsquoThey come They come The Yankees comersquordquo32
The interest of the Union army in Huntsville centered primarily on the capture of the
Huntsville Depot which served the Memphis and Charleston Railroads This particular junction
served as a major supply artery for the Confederate army the capture of which would help to
wound the rebel forces A Nashville newspaper Daily Union further described the situation
This Memphis and Charleston road is the only connection left the rebels between
Louisiana Mississippi and all Alabama west of Pensacola and the Southern
seaboard States Troops can only be sent east from New Orleans Natchez
Vicksburg Jackson Memphis Baton Rouge or Mobile or those points from
Virginia North or South Carolina or Georgia over the Memphis and Charleston
road the only railroad line now connecting the east and west of the rebellion Let
that road be once broken and the Southern Confederacy is cut into as effectually
as if a Chinese wall were built between the Gulf and the seaboard States33
Several buildings and homes in Huntsville were occupied by the Union army and were
used primarily as headquarters and encampments During the Civil War the Northern Bank of
Alabama was used as the commissary for Union troops (See figure 12) Local lore holds that
prior to the Federal occupation of Huntsville the bankrsquos cashier Theophilus Lacy placed the
bankrsquos funds in a burlap bag which he then hid inside one of the fireplace flues behind the
tellersrsquo cage Primary source documentation to support this tale has not been located34
Huntsville because of the Union occupation during the war escaped much of the terrible
destruction inflicted on other southern towns In general the occupation of Huntsville saw little
resistance Several of the pro-Confederate inhabitants did feel the weight of the occupation
however as Mary Jane Chadick a local Huntsville resident outlines in a diary entry dated April
12 1862 ldquoTruly our town is full of the enemy There is a sentinel at every corner Everybody
keeps the front door locked and I make it a point to answer the bell myself not permitting
children or servants to open it They have been searching the houses today for armshellip Servants
31
Deborah Storey Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml (accessed June 17 2015) Alabama Civil War Battles httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26 2015) Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama
32 Martha B Gabel General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical Review
(July 1971) 16 33
Gabel 14 Victoria Cumbow Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11 2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed June 17 2015)
34 Pat Jones The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review (April-July 1975) 26-27
13
Figure 7 Union Occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1864
Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
are giving information of all the
arms and soldiers who have been
concealedrdquo35
Some reprisal from pro-
Confederate bushwhackers did
occur these attacks escalated as
the occupation went on Mitchel
had difficulty maintaining order
throughout his widely spread
troops In a wire sent to
Washington Mitchel stated
ldquoArmed citizens fire into the
trains cut the telegraph wires
attack the guards of bridges cut
off and destroy my couriers
while guerrilla bands of cavalry
attack whenever there is the
slightest chance of successrdquo36
Mitchel attempted to restore order as is revealed in an April 28
1862 diary entry by Mary Jane Chadick that states ldquoGeneral Mitchel has been in a rage all the
week on account of the cutting of the telegraph wires the tearing up of the railroad track firing
into trains and holds the citizens responsible for the same having had 12 of the most prominent
arrestedrdquo General Mitchel and other Union officers took pains to ensure that the homes and
buildings that they occupied among them the Northern Bank building remained intact Only one
building the First Methodist Church on Greene Street was lost during the occupation when it
was accidentally burned down in January 1864 37
From April 11 1862 until the Civil Warrsquos end on April 9 1865 Federal troops occupied
the City of Huntsville By the warrsquos end a semblance of peace was restored to the City as the
Union occupation was lifted
35
Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
36 Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama 37
Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
2
Figure 1 Excerpt of January 26 1836 newspaper article Document B List of the Furniture bought for the Branch of
the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville 1835 Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
3
Figure 2 Excerpt of January 26 1836 newspaper article Document C Statement of expenses of the Branch of the
Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville 1835 Highlighted areas state ldquoG amp G W Steel for repairing bank
houserdquo ldquo6 morsquos rent for bank house from 1st of May at $250 per year 12500rdquo and ldquoAdvertising proposals for
building banking house (twice) 900rdquo Image courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
4
Property for the construction of the new Branch Bank building was purchased from four
separate property owners between March and December of 1837 The dates of purchase are as
follows
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to the Branch of the Bank of the State
of Alabama at Huntsville two hundred and eighty eight square yards for the sum
of $200000 on March 3 18378
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to the Branch of the Bank of the State
of Alabama at Huntsville three ldquocertain lots pieces or parcels of groundrdquo for the
sum of $800000 on March 15 18379
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State
of Alabama at Huntsville a parcel of ground for the sum of $40000 on March 24
183710
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville a certain lot of land for the sum of $200000 on December
4 183711
Primary documentation covering the construction of the bank is fragmented making the
exact details unclear Future examination of records at the Alabama Department of Archives and
History may shed more light on the date of construction and the early years of the bank building
According to William H Brantleyrsquos book Banking in Alabama 1816-1860 ldquothe only original
record available which gives any detail of the construction of the bank house is an old book the
property of Samuel Chapman Lacyrdquo12
The last know owner of the said Lacy book was Maud
McClure Kelly13
A cursory study shows that Maud McClure Kelly was Evelyn Letitia Lacy
Kellyrsquos (Samuel Chapman Lacyrsquos daughter) sister-in-law Maud likely acquired the book from
Evelyn
8 Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville
Deed Book Q (Huntsville March 3 1837) 424
9 Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q (Huntsville March 15 1837) 436
10 Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q (Huntsville March 24 1837) 437
11 Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q (Huntsville December 4 1837) 466
12 Brantley 377
13
Brantley 477
5
Efforts to locate the account book have been
unfruitful to date14
According to Brantley the earliest entry
in the Lacy book is a payment made to G amp G
W Steele on July 8 1837 for vault doors
Several entries of payments made to Steele
spanning the years of 1837-1840 highlight the
progress being made on the bankrsquos construction
A receipt entry dated September 14 1840 for the
amount of $106380 was made out to the Steele
brothers ldquoin full of all demands for building the
Bank Houserdquo15
According to Brantley the final
entry in the book reads ldquoby amount of your bill
for building the Banking House as settled by the
Board receipted and filedhellip$3414133rdquo16
Figure 3 Maude McClure Kelly Image courtesy
of Ancestrycom
Architect George Steele-
Considered to be the premiere antebellum architect for the city of Huntsville George
Gilliam Steele was born on April 1 1798 to George and Sally Gilliam Steele in Bedford County
Virginia Steelersquos early life remains largely shrouded and there are no known records that Steele
received any formal architectural training according to his obituary he was self-taught17
Steele
14
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t66885873_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015) Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordamptid=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015) Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birmingham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst (accessed May 07 2015)
15
Brantley 377 16
Ibid 17
Linda Bayer George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation (Spring 1979) 4 F Charles Vaughn Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no 1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-13 Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
6
came to Huntsville from Virginia around 1818 and soon
after began work as a brick-builder In December 1823
Steele married Eliza Ann Weaver (1808-1891)18
The two
had eight children Matthew W Steele (1824-1907) John
F Steele (1826-1903) George G Steele (1828-1859)
Sallie Fleming Steele (1829-1891) Mary Eliza Steele
(1832-1834) Ellen Elizabeth Steele (1832-1834) William
Angelo Steele (1836-1912) and Susan Eliza Steele (1839-
1913)19
Steele continued to expand his professional
repertoire to include architectural design One of his first
designs was a house he built for himself in 1824 located
at 519 Randolph Avenue Steele is also credited with the
design of the Feeney House (414 Randolph Avenue) the
Yeatman House (528 Adams Street) the Cox House (311
Lincoln Street) the Cabaniss House (603 Randolph
Avenue) the second Madison County Courthouse (no
longer extant) Mary Bibbrsquos Mausoleum (Maple Hill
Cemetery) Oak Place (808 Maysville Road) Pope
Mansion (403 Echols Avenue) the old Episcopal
binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
18
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p195656965_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
19 Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Figure 4 George Gilliam Steele picture
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County
Public Library
7
Church of the Nativity on the corner of Eustis and Greene (no longer extant) the Fearn House
(517 Franklin Avenue) the Figures House (423 Randolph Avenue) the Presidentrsquos House (413
Randolph Avenue) Huntsville Female College (no longer extant) and Huntsville Female
Seminary School (no longer extant) George Steele died on October 21 1855 and was buried in
Maple Hill Cemetery20
His obituary in the ldquoSouthern Advocaterdquo read
Capt George Steele was born in Virginia in Bedford County on the ___
He resided up to his death the 21st inst in his 58
th year It is not the language of
the idle panegyric to say that George Steele was a man of marked individuality ndash
of positive characteristics and of impressive being There was nothing passive
doubtful or unreliable about him He was open and bold in expression and
prompt and energetic in action ndash Upon all questions affecting private or public
W__ [well] he had an opinion and could be placed by the most casual observer
He was loyal and sure() to those who loved him abt() but to those men
who sought him sweet as summer He was a warm and confiding friend never
forgetting a favor or a kindness and ready to spend and be spent aid of those who
survived his confidence
Capt Steelersquos life was an active one He grappled with the stern realities of
existence at the very threshold of manhood Without the adventurous and _____
way through all obstacles and over powerful opposition He was
self-educated ndash physically mechanically mentally artistically Of an iron will
indomitable energy and keen sagacity he met difficulties but overcame them and
kept straight on in the goal of merited success He was eminently a practical man-
a cultivated Mechanic ndash a Master builder ndash an accomplished Architect He had
not only learnt the drudgery of this profession but even passed beyond and
became an undertaker a designer a creator His judgment his taste his artistic
skill have become institutional They are seen open to the light of day manifest
the most obtuse in the Public Buildings in Huntsville ndash the Bank Court House
Blossom Institute Female Seminary Episcopal and Cumberland Churches many
of the residences in town and his own beautiful and tastefully adorned mansion
Huntsville is noted abroad for its improvements and public buildings To no one
so much as George Steele is the town indebted for its reputation His advice his
taste his hand are visible everywhere and for the better too He looked not only
to the present but to the future in all that he advised planned or executed and
Huntsville will long have cause to be grateful to his memory
Capt Steele was of a warm generous impulsive nature He was not free of
faults who that is mortal is But they were mere specks in the pure gold of his
character ndash ldquoHis faults lie gently on himrdquo Menrsquos virtues we would have live in
brass and their evil manners write in water His public character is known and
appreciated in this community where he lived moved and had his being so long
as usefully ndash as just ___and liberal in his dealings
20
Bayer 5-21
8
It was at home that George Steele also lived to benefit others There he lavished
his kindness and provided care over all dependent on him A kind husband an
indulgent yet not foolish father and a good master was the center of his family ndash
spared no pains apart and no expense in whatever ministered to their welfare
comfort or happiness Knowing the advantages of education by the lack of them
in his youth all his children were trained in the path of knowledge at the best
institutions He labored upwards to improve to elevate to educate the hand the
heart the mind the manners
His life was a successful one ndash a boisterous backward unpromising Spring ndash a
g___ grieving warm Summer an abundant yet short Autumn his demise sunk
into his ___ and his untimely ___ cut him off ___ was Winter with him And that
was mortal of him ___ gone from us ndash ldquolarge was his bounty and his soul
sincererdquo Let us imitate him in all the great good in his character which we are
still ___ and with a knowledge that we too are mortal and erring creatures21
Steele has long been attributed to the design of the Branch Bank building but is not the
only person to leave his mark on the structure According to the Lacy account book the building
was built with the help of several local subcontractors carpenters and masons including James
M Venable who ldquocovered the bank with sundry coppersrdquo Hugh N Moore who completed the
carpentry work William Hale who completed the painting Edward T and R Parker who
ldquoprovided the iron railings and installed them Thomas and William Brandon who completed the
stone and brick work Justin Dyer who was a subcontractor for the Brandon brothers and
Frederick Elgin who completed the stucco work for the slave quarters22
21 Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
22
Brantley 377-378
9
The Panic of 1837
Figure 5 Political Cartoon by HR Robinson depicting the Panic of 1837 Print courtesy of the Library of
Congressrsquo Prints amp Photographs Catalog
Shortly after construction on the Branch Bank began the country experienced a large
scale panic known widely as the Panic of 1837 The Panic of 1837 has long been attributed to a
real estate bubble and inconsistent American banking policies The crisis began in 1836 when
the Bank of the United States lost its charter this in turn allowed the nationrsquos banks to issue
private banknotes unsupported by gold or silver Shortly thereafter President Andrew Jackson
passed the Specie Circular of 1836 This executive order was a reaction to excessive land
speculation and the use of unsupported paper money printed by sundry banks to purchase land
The order only allowed the purchase of government land using gold or silver By 1837 the
banks refused to redeem banknotes effectively shutting down commerce The initial Panic of
1837 and the subsequent depression that followed lasted for six-years23
The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville weathered this national
storm for a time In an annual report for the bank published in the November 18 1837 issue of
ldquoThe Democratrdquo Bank President Bartley M Lowe wrote
23
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012 httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
10
The statement of the ldquogeneral liabilities of the Bank and means to meet themrdquo
made without reference to the periods when those liabilities become due shows a
surplus of $16434442 Taking into consideration the late derangements in the
fiscal concerns of the country from the effects of which no banking institution
has been exempt a more favorable state of things could scarcely have been
anticipated and were it proper to close this communication here the friends of
this Branch might congratulate themselves on its prosperous condition24
All of the branches of the State Bank of Alabama including the branch at Huntsville
eventually succumbed to the pressures of the Panic of 183725
By February 4 1843 an Act
passed by the General Assembly allowed for the liquidation of the Branch of the Bank of the
State of Alabama at Huntsville26
After the Branch Bank at Huntsvillersquos charter expired January
1 1844 a commission was appointed in 1846 by order of the state legislature to ldquoonly continue
in operation for the security and collection of debts due to said Branch Bank and for the
settlement and liquidation of its affairsrdquo27
The committee completed its task by 1853 and the
bank building and land was sold in October of 185428
24
BM Lowe Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat (October 31 1837 Huntsville) 1
25 Linda Bayer George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief History 1
26
CC Clay comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama (Alabama Marmaduke J Slade 1843) 43
27
Bayer 1
28 The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z (Huntsville October 14
1854) 597Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z( Huntsville October 25
1854) 596 John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed Book BB
(Huntsville July 10 1857) 218-219 The deed dated July 10 1857 between John Whiting and Stephen Ewing is a later published document of an agreement made during the original purchase of the Bank property in 1837 A deed dated March 15 1837 between Stephen Ewing and the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville states that Ewing conveyed a parcel of land located on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row to the Branch Bank for the sum of $800000 The later deed dated July 101857 states ldquoMr Ewing having determined to take the House and lot owned by the Bank and receive the $1750 in exchange for the whole of his property on the bluff according to the proposition made to him at the last meeting_ Ordered that the President make to Mr Ewing a Deed for the lot sold to him and receive from him a Deed for the property sold by him to the bankrdquo The deed then goes on to say ldquoAnd whereas the said Stephen S Ewing afterwards on the 15
th day of March 1837 delivered
to the said Branch Bank a Deed of Conveyance of that date from him and his wife duly executed and acknowledged for the said property on the bluff And whereas no deed was ever made by the President of said Branch Bank or by any other person in pursuance of said resolution to the said Branch Bankrdquo It appears from these two records that Ewing made an agreement with the State Bank to exchange the property that he owned on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row for a plot of land and building that the Bank owned plus $175000 While Ewing held up his side of the agreement by creating a deed of sale in 1837 the Bank did not complete this task until 1857 after the Bank and land sold to the Nothern Bank of Alabama
11
The Northern Bank of Alabama and the Civil War (1852-1865)
Figure 6 Union occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1862 Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison
County Public Library
The Northern Bank of Alabama finalized the purchase of the bank house and lot in
October 1854 The bank remained in the possession of the Northern Bank of Alabama for fifteen
years Like the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville the Northern Bank of
Alabama was destined to face turmoil29
On April 12th
1861 the American Civil War tore
through the country marking the beginning of a tumultuous time in Huntsville
By and large Huntsville was a divided town prior to and during the Civil War
Huntsville composed of both landed gentry and yeoman farmers supported both Confederate
and Union sympathizers Despite the rift the fate of Huntsville like many towns and cities in
the south was irrevocably impacted by the Civil War30
Union troops led by General Ormsby M Mitchel seized control of Huntsville on the
morning of April 11 1862 Troops composed of the Indiana 5th
Independent Light Artillery 37th
29
Ibid 30
Taylor M Polites The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013 httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
12
Infantry the Illinois 19th
and 24th
Infantry and the Ohio 4th
Cavalry and 18th
Infantry led a
surprise attack on the city and Huntsville yielded to the encroaching Union Army with little
opposition31
One onlooker reported ldquothe clattering noise of the cavalry aroused them from their
slumber in the dawn of the morning and they flocked to door and window exclaiming with
blanched cheek and faltering tongue lsquoThey come They come The Yankees comersquordquo32
The interest of the Union army in Huntsville centered primarily on the capture of the
Huntsville Depot which served the Memphis and Charleston Railroads This particular junction
served as a major supply artery for the Confederate army the capture of which would help to
wound the rebel forces A Nashville newspaper Daily Union further described the situation
This Memphis and Charleston road is the only connection left the rebels between
Louisiana Mississippi and all Alabama west of Pensacola and the Southern
seaboard States Troops can only be sent east from New Orleans Natchez
Vicksburg Jackson Memphis Baton Rouge or Mobile or those points from
Virginia North or South Carolina or Georgia over the Memphis and Charleston
road the only railroad line now connecting the east and west of the rebellion Let
that road be once broken and the Southern Confederacy is cut into as effectually
as if a Chinese wall were built between the Gulf and the seaboard States33
Several buildings and homes in Huntsville were occupied by the Union army and were
used primarily as headquarters and encampments During the Civil War the Northern Bank of
Alabama was used as the commissary for Union troops (See figure 12) Local lore holds that
prior to the Federal occupation of Huntsville the bankrsquos cashier Theophilus Lacy placed the
bankrsquos funds in a burlap bag which he then hid inside one of the fireplace flues behind the
tellersrsquo cage Primary source documentation to support this tale has not been located34
Huntsville because of the Union occupation during the war escaped much of the terrible
destruction inflicted on other southern towns In general the occupation of Huntsville saw little
resistance Several of the pro-Confederate inhabitants did feel the weight of the occupation
however as Mary Jane Chadick a local Huntsville resident outlines in a diary entry dated April
12 1862 ldquoTruly our town is full of the enemy There is a sentinel at every corner Everybody
keeps the front door locked and I make it a point to answer the bell myself not permitting
children or servants to open it They have been searching the houses today for armshellip Servants
31
Deborah Storey Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml (accessed June 17 2015) Alabama Civil War Battles httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26 2015) Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama
32 Martha B Gabel General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical Review
(July 1971) 16 33
Gabel 14 Victoria Cumbow Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11 2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed June 17 2015)
34 Pat Jones The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review (April-July 1975) 26-27
13
Figure 7 Union Occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1864
Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
are giving information of all the
arms and soldiers who have been
concealedrdquo35
Some reprisal from pro-
Confederate bushwhackers did
occur these attacks escalated as
the occupation went on Mitchel
had difficulty maintaining order
throughout his widely spread
troops In a wire sent to
Washington Mitchel stated
ldquoArmed citizens fire into the
trains cut the telegraph wires
attack the guards of bridges cut
off and destroy my couriers
while guerrilla bands of cavalry
attack whenever there is the
slightest chance of successrdquo36
Mitchel attempted to restore order as is revealed in an April 28
1862 diary entry by Mary Jane Chadick that states ldquoGeneral Mitchel has been in a rage all the
week on account of the cutting of the telegraph wires the tearing up of the railroad track firing
into trains and holds the citizens responsible for the same having had 12 of the most prominent
arrestedrdquo General Mitchel and other Union officers took pains to ensure that the homes and
buildings that they occupied among them the Northern Bank building remained intact Only one
building the First Methodist Church on Greene Street was lost during the occupation when it
was accidentally burned down in January 1864 37
From April 11 1862 until the Civil Warrsquos end on April 9 1865 Federal troops occupied
the City of Huntsville By the warrsquos end a semblance of peace was restored to the City as the
Union occupation was lifted
35
Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
36 Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama 37
Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
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1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
3
Figure 2 Excerpt of January 26 1836 newspaper article Document C Statement of expenses of the Branch of the
Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville 1835 Highlighted areas state ldquoG amp G W Steel for repairing bank
houserdquo ldquo6 morsquos rent for bank house from 1st of May at $250 per year 12500rdquo and ldquoAdvertising proposals for
building banking house (twice) 900rdquo Image courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
4
Property for the construction of the new Branch Bank building was purchased from four
separate property owners between March and December of 1837 The dates of purchase are as
follows
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to the Branch of the Bank of the State
of Alabama at Huntsville two hundred and eighty eight square yards for the sum
of $200000 on March 3 18378
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to the Branch of the Bank of the State
of Alabama at Huntsville three ldquocertain lots pieces or parcels of groundrdquo for the
sum of $800000 on March 15 18379
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State
of Alabama at Huntsville a parcel of ground for the sum of $40000 on March 24
183710
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville a certain lot of land for the sum of $200000 on December
4 183711
Primary documentation covering the construction of the bank is fragmented making the
exact details unclear Future examination of records at the Alabama Department of Archives and
History may shed more light on the date of construction and the early years of the bank building
According to William H Brantleyrsquos book Banking in Alabama 1816-1860 ldquothe only original
record available which gives any detail of the construction of the bank house is an old book the
property of Samuel Chapman Lacyrdquo12
The last know owner of the said Lacy book was Maud
McClure Kelly13
A cursory study shows that Maud McClure Kelly was Evelyn Letitia Lacy
Kellyrsquos (Samuel Chapman Lacyrsquos daughter) sister-in-law Maud likely acquired the book from
Evelyn
8 Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville
Deed Book Q (Huntsville March 3 1837) 424
9 Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q (Huntsville March 15 1837) 436
10 Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q (Huntsville March 24 1837) 437
11 Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q (Huntsville December 4 1837) 466
12 Brantley 377
13
Brantley 477
5
Efforts to locate the account book have been
unfruitful to date14
According to Brantley the earliest entry
in the Lacy book is a payment made to G amp G
W Steele on July 8 1837 for vault doors
Several entries of payments made to Steele
spanning the years of 1837-1840 highlight the
progress being made on the bankrsquos construction
A receipt entry dated September 14 1840 for the
amount of $106380 was made out to the Steele
brothers ldquoin full of all demands for building the
Bank Houserdquo15
According to Brantley the final
entry in the book reads ldquoby amount of your bill
for building the Banking House as settled by the
Board receipted and filedhellip$3414133rdquo16
Figure 3 Maude McClure Kelly Image courtesy
of Ancestrycom
Architect George Steele-
Considered to be the premiere antebellum architect for the city of Huntsville George
Gilliam Steele was born on April 1 1798 to George and Sally Gilliam Steele in Bedford County
Virginia Steelersquos early life remains largely shrouded and there are no known records that Steele
received any formal architectural training according to his obituary he was self-taught17
Steele
14
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t66885873_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015) Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordamptid=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015) Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birmingham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst (accessed May 07 2015)
15
Brantley 377 16
Ibid 17
Linda Bayer George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation (Spring 1979) 4 F Charles Vaughn Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no 1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-13 Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
6
came to Huntsville from Virginia around 1818 and soon
after began work as a brick-builder In December 1823
Steele married Eliza Ann Weaver (1808-1891)18
The two
had eight children Matthew W Steele (1824-1907) John
F Steele (1826-1903) George G Steele (1828-1859)
Sallie Fleming Steele (1829-1891) Mary Eliza Steele
(1832-1834) Ellen Elizabeth Steele (1832-1834) William
Angelo Steele (1836-1912) and Susan Eliza Steele (1839-
1913)19
Steele continued to expand his professional
repertoire to include architectural design One of his first
designs was a house he built for himself in 1824 located
at 519 Randolph Avenue Steele is also credited with the
design of the Feeney House (414 Randolph Avenue) the
Yeatman House (528 Adams Street) the Cox House (311
Lincoln Street) the Cabaniss House (603 Randolph
Avenue) the second Madison County Courthouse (no
longer extant) Mary Bibbrsquos Mausoleum (Maple Hill
Cemetery) Oak Place (808 Maysville Road) Pope
Mansion (403 Echols Avenue) the old Episcopal
binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
18
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p195656965_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
19 Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Figure 4 George Gilliam Steele picture
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County
Public Library
7
Church of the Nativity on the corner of Eustis and Greene (no longer extant) the Fearn House
(517 Franklin Avenue) the Figures House (423 Randolph Avenue) the Presidentrsquos House (413
Randolph Avenue) Huntsville Female College (no longer extant) and Huntsville Female
Seminary School (no longer extant) George Steele died on October 21 1855 and was buried in
Maple Hill Cemetery20
His obituary in the ldquoSouthern Advocaterdquo read
Capt George Steele was born in Virginia in Bedford County on the ___
He resided up to his death the 21st inst in his 58
th year It is not the language of
the idle panegyric to say that George Steele was a man of marked individuality ndash
of positive characteristics and of impressive being There was nothing passive
doubtful or unreliable about him He was open and bold in expression and
prompt and energetic in action ndash Upon all questions affecting private or public
W__ [well] he had an opinion and could be placed by the most casual observer
He was loyal and sure() to those who loved him abt() but to those men
who sought him sweet as summer He was a warm and confiding friend never
forgetting a favor or a kindness and ready to spend and be spent aid of those who
survived his confidence
Capt Steelersquos life was an active one He grappled with the stern realities of
existence at the very threshold of manhood Without the adventurous and _____
way through all obstacles and over powerful opposition He was
self-educated ndash physically mechanically mentally artistically Of an iron will
indomitable energy and keen sagacity he met difficulties but overcame them and
kept straight on in the goal of merited success He was eminently a practical man-
a cultivated Mechanic ndash a Master builder ndash an accomplished Architect He had
not only learnt the drudgery of this profession but even passed beyond and
became an undertaker a designer a creator His judgment his taste his artistic
skill have become institutional They are seen open to the light of day manifest
the most obtuse in the Public Buildings in Huntsville ndash the Bank Court House
Blossom Institute Female Seminary Episcopal and Cumberland Churches many
of the residences in town and his own beautiful and tastefully adorned mansion
Huntsville is noted abroad for its improvements and public buildings To no one
so much as George Steele is the town indebted for its reputation His advice his
taste his hand are visible everywhere and for the better too He looked not only
to the present but to the future in all that he advised planned or executed and
Huntsville will long have cause to be grateful to his memory
Capt Steele was of a warm generous impulsive nature He was not free of
faults who that is mortal is But they were mere specks in the pure gold of his
character ndash ldquoHis faults lie gently on himrdquo Menrsquos virtues we would have live in
brass and their evil manners write in water His public character is known and
appreciated in this community where he lived moved and had his being so long
as usefully ndash as just ___and liberal in his dealings
20
Bayer 5-21
8
It was at home that George Steele also lived to benefit others There he lavished
his kindness and provided care over all dependent on him A kind husband an
indulgent yet not foolish father and a good master was the center of his family ndash
spared no pains apart and no expense in whatever ministered to their welfare
comfort or happiness Knowing the advantages of education by the lack of them
in his youth all his children were trained in the path of knowledge at the best
institutions He labored upwards to improve to elevate to educate the hand the
heart the mind the manners
His life was a successful one ndash a boisterous backward unpromising Spring ndash a
g___ grieving warm Summer an abundant yet short Autumn his demise sunk
into his ___ and his untimely ___ cut him off ___ was Winter with him And that
was mortal of him ___ gone from us ndash ldquolarge was his bounty and his soul
sincererdquo Let us imitate him in all the great good in his character which we are
still ___ and with a knowledge that we too are mortal and erring creatures21
Steele has long been attributed to the design of the Branch Bank building but is not the
only person to leave his mark on the structure According to the Lacy account book the building
was built with the help of several local subcontractors carpenters and masons including James
M Venable who ldquocovered the bank with sundry coppersrdquo Hugh N Moore who completed the
carpentry work William Hale who completed the painting Edward T and R Parker who
ldquoprovided the iron railings and installed them Thomas and William Brandon who completed the
stone and brick work Justin Dyer who was a subcontractor for the Brandon brothers and
Frederick Elgin who completed the stucco work for the slave quarters22
21 Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
22
Brantley 377-378
9
The Panic of 1837
Figure 5 Political Cartoon by HR Robinson depicting the Panic of 1837 Print courtesy of the Library of
Congressrsquo Prints amp Photographs Catalog
Shortly after construction on the Branch Bank began the country experienced a large
scale panic known widely as the Panic of 1837 The Panic of 1837 has long been attributed to a
real estate bubble and inconsistent American banking policies The crisis began in 1836 when
the Bank of the United States lost its charter this in turn allowed the nationrsquos banks to issue
private banknotes unsupported by gold or silver Shortly thereafter President Andrew Jackson
passed the Specie Circular of 1836 This executive order was a reaction to excessive land
speculation and the use of unsupported paper money printed by sundry banks to purchase land
The order only allowed the purchase of government land using gold or silver By 1837 the
banks refused to redeem banknotes effectively shutting down commerce The initial Panic of
1837 and the subsequent depression that followed lasted for six-years23
The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville weathered this national
storm for a time In an annual report for the bank published in the November 18 1837 issue of
ldquoThe Democratrdquo Bank President Bartley M Lowe wrote
23
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012 httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
10
The statement of the ldquogeneral liabilities of the Bank and means to meet themrdquo
made without reference to the periods when those liabilities become due shows a
surplus of $16434442 Taking into consideration the late derangements in the
fiscal concerns of the country from the effects of which no banking institution
has been exempt a more favorable state of things could scarcely have been
anticipated and were it proper to close this communication here the friends of
this Branch might congratulate themselves on its prosperous condition24
All of the branches of the State Bank of Alabama including the branch at Huntsville
eventually succumbed to the pressures of the Panic of 183725
By February 4 1843 an Act
passed by the General Assembly allowed for the liquidation of the Branch of the Bank of the
State of Alabama at Huntsville26
After the Branch Bank at Huntsvillersquos charter expired January
1 1844 a commission was appointed in 1846 by order of the state legislature to ldquoonly continue
in operation for the security and collection of debts due to said Branch Bank and for the
settlement and liquidation of its affairsrdquo27
The committee completed its task by 1853 and the
bank building and land was sold in October of 185428
24
BM Lowe Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat (October 31 1837 Huntsville) 1
25 Linda Bayer George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief History 1
26
CC Clay comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama (Alabama Marmaduke J Slade 1843) 43
27
Bayer 1
28 The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z (Huntsville October 14
1854) 597Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z( Huntsville October 25
1854) 596 John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed Book BB
(Huntsville July 10 1857) 218-219 The deed dated July 10 1857 between John Whiting and Stephen Ewing is a later published document of an agreement made during the original purchase of the Bank property in 1837 A deed dated March 15 1837 between Stephen Ewing and the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville states that Ewing conveyed a parcel of land located on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row to the Branch Bank for the sum of $800000 The later deed dated July 101857 states ldquoMr Ewing having determined to take the House and lot owned by the Bank and receive the $1750 in exchange for the whole of his property on the bluff according to the proposition made to him at the last meeting_ Ordered that the President make to Mr Ewing a Deed for the lot sold to him and receive from him a Deed for the property sold by him to the bankrdquo The deed then goes on to say ldquoAnd whereas the said Stephen S Ewing afterwards on the 15
th day of March 1837 delivered
to the said Branch Bank a Deed of Conveyance of that date from him and his wife duly executed and acknowledged for the said property on the bluff And whereas no deed was ever made by the President of said Branch Bank or by any other person in pursuance of said resolution to the said Branch Bankrdquo It appears from these two records that Ewing made an agreement with the State Bank to exchange the property that he owned on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row for a plot of land and building that the Bank owned plus $175000 While Ewing held up his side of the agreement by creating a deed of sale in 1837 the Bank did not complete this task until 1857 after the Bank and land sold to the Nothern Bank of Alabama
11
The Northern Bank of Alabama and the Civil War (1852-1865)
Figure 6 Union occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1862 Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison
County Public Library
The Northern Bank of Alabama finalized the purchase of the bank house and lot in
October 1854 The bank remained in the possession of the Northern Bank of Alabama for fifteen
years Like the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville the Northern Bank of
Alabama was destined to face turmoil29
On April 12th
1861 the American Civil War tore
through the country marking the beginning of a tumultuous time in Huntsville
By and large Huntsville was a divided town prior to and during the Civil War
Huntsville composed of both landed gentry and yeoman farmers supported both Confederate
and Union sympathizers Despite the rift the fate of Huntsville like many towns and cities in
the south was irrevocably impacted by the Civil War30
Union troops led by General Ormsby M Mitchel seized control of Huntsville on the
morning of April 11 1862 Troops composed of the Indiana 5th
Independent Light Artillery 37th
29
Ibid 30
Taylor M Polites The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013 httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
12
Infantry the Illinois 19th
and 24th
Infantry and the Ohio 4th
Cavalry and 18th
Infantry led a
surprise attack on the city and Huntsville yielded to the encroaching Union Army with little
opposition31
One onlooker reported ldquothe clattering noise of the cavalry aroused them from their
slumber in the dawn of the morning and they flocked to door and window exclaiming with
blanched cheek and faltering tongue lsquoThey come They come The Yankees comersquordquo32
The interest of the Union army in Huntsville centered primarily on the capture of the
Huntsville Depot which served the Memphis and Charleston Railroads This particular junction
served as a major supply artery for the Confederate army the capture of which would help to
wound the rebel forces A Nashville newspaper Daily Union further described the situation
This Memphis and Charleston road is the only connection left the rebels between
Louisiana Mississippi and all Alabama west of Pensacola and the Southern
seaboard States Troops can only be sent east from New Orleans Natchez
Vicksburg Jackson Memphis Baton Rouge or Mobile or those points from
Virginia North or South Carolina or Georgia over the Memphis and Charleston
road the only railroad line now connecting the east and west of the rebellion Let
that road be once broken and the Southern Confederacy is cut into as effectually
as if a Chinese wall were built between the Gulf and the seaboard States33
Several buildings and homes in Huntsville were occupied by the Union army and were
used primarily as headquarters and encampments During the Civil War the Northern Bank of
Alabama was used as the commissary for Union troops (See figure 12) Local lore holds that
prior to the Federal occupation of Huntsville the bankrsquos cashier Theophilus Lacy placed the
bankrsquos funds in a burlap bag which he then hid inside one of the fireplace flues behind the
tellersrsquo cage Primary source documentation to support this tale has not been located34
Huntsville because of the Union occupation during the war escaped much of the terrible
destruction inflicted on other southern towns In general the occupation of Huntsville saw little
resistance Several of the pro-Confederate inhabitants did feel the weight of the occupation
however as Mary Jane Chadick a local Huntsville resident outlines in a diary entry dated April
12 1862 ldquoTruly our town is full of the enemy There is a sentinel at every corner Everybody
keeps the front door locked and I make it a point to answer the bell myself not permitting
children or servants to open it They have been searching the houses today for armshellip Servants
31
Deborah Storey Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml (accessed June 17 2015) Alabama Civil War Battles httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26 2015) Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama
32 Martha B Gabel General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical Review
(July 1971) 16 33
Gabel 14 Victoria Cumbow Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11 2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed June 17 2015)
34 Pat Jones The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review (April-July 1975) 26-27
13
Figure 7 Union Occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1864
Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
are giving information of all the
arms and soldiers who have been
concealedrdquo35
Some reprisal from pro-
Confederate bushwhackers did
occur these attacks escalated as
the occupation went on Mitchel
had difficulty maintaining order
throughout his widely spread
troops In a wire sent to
Washington Mitchel stated
ldquoArmed citizens fire into the
trains cut the telegraph wires
attack the guards of bridges cut
off and destroy my couriers
while guerrilla bands of cavalry
attack whenever there is the
slightest chance of successrdquo36
Mitchel attempted to restore order as is revealed in an April 28
1862 diary entry by Mary Jane Chadick that states ldquoGeneral Mitchel has been in a rage all the
week on account of the cutting of the telegraph wires the tearing up of the railroad track firing
into trains and holds the citizens responsible for the same having had 12 of the most prominent
arrestedrdquo General Mitchel and other Union officers took pains to ensure that the homes and
buildings that they occupied among them the Northern Bank building remained intact Only one
building the First Methodist Church on Greene Street was lost during the occupation when it
was accidentally burned down in January 1864 37
From April 11 1862 until the Civil Warrsquos end on April 9 1865 Federal troops occupied
the City of Huntsville By the warrsquos end a semblance of peace was restored to the City as the
Union occupation was lifted
35
Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
36 Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama 37
Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
4
Property for the construction of the new Branch Bank building was purchased from four
separate property owners between March and December of 1837 The dates of purchase are as
follows
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to the Branch of the Bank of the State
of Alabama at Huntsville two hundred and eighty eight square yards for the sum
of $200000 on March 3 18378
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to the Branch of the Bank of the State
of Alabama at Huntsville three ldquocertain lots pieces or parcels of groundrdquo for the
sum of $800000 on March 15 18379
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State
of Alabama at Huntsville a parcel of ground for the sum of $40000 on March 24
183710
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville a certain lot of land for the sum of $200000 on December
4 183711
Primary documentation covering the construction of the bank is fragmented making the
exact details unclear Future examination of records at the Alabama Department of Archives and
History may shed more light on the date of construction and the early years of the bank building
According to William H Brantleyrsquos book Banking in Alabama 1816-1860 ldquothe only original
record available which gives any detail of the construction of the bank house is an old book the
property of Samuel Chapman Lacyrdquo12
The last know owner of the said Lacy book was Maud
McClure Kelly13
A cursory study shows that Maud McClure Kelly was Evelyn Letitia Lacy
Kellyrsquos (Samuel Chapman Lacyrsquos daughter) sister-in-law Maud likely acquired the book from
Evelyn
8 Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville
Deed Book Q (Huntsville March 3 1837) 424
9 Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q (Huntsville March 15 1837) 436
10 Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q (Huntsville March 24 1837) 437
11 Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q (Huntsville December 4 1837) 466
12 Brantley 377
13
Brantley 477
5
Efforts to locate the account book have been
unfruitful to date14
According to Brantley the earliest entry
in the Lacy book is a payment made to G amp G
W Steele on July 8 1837 for vault doors
Several entries of payments made to Steele
spanning the years of 1837-1840 highlight the
progress being made on the bankrsquos construction
A receipt entry dated September 14 1840 for the
amount of $106380 was made out to the Steele
brothers ldquoin full of all demands for building the
Bank Houserdquo15
According to Brantley the final
entry in the book reads ldquoby amount of your bill
for building the Banking House as settled by the
Board receipted and filedhellip$3414133rdquo16
Figure 3 Maude McClure Kelly Image courtesy
of Ancestrycom
Architect George Steele-
Considered to be the premiere antebellum architect for the city of Huntsville George
Gilliam Steele was born on April 1 1798 to George and Sally Gilliam Steele in Bedford County
Virginia Steelersquos early life remains largely shrouded and there are no known records that Steele
received any formal architectural training according to his obituary he was self-taught17
Steele
14
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t66885873_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015) Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordamptid=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015) Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birmingham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst (accessed May 07 2015)
15
Brantley 377 16
Ibid 17
Linda Bayer George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation (Spring 1979) 4 F Charles Vaughn Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no 1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-13 Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
6
came to Huntsville from Virginia around 1818 and soon
after began work as a brick-builder In December 1823
Steele married Eliza Ann Weaver (1808-1891)18
The two
had eight children Matthew W Steele (1824-1907) John
F Steele (1826-1903) George G Steele (1828-1859)
Sallie Fleming Steele (1829-1891) Mary Eliza Steele
(1832-1834) Ellen Elizabeth Steele (1832-1834) William
Angelo Steele (1836-1912) and Susan Eliza Steele (1839-
1913)19
Steele continued to expand his professional
repertoire to include architectural design One of his first
designs was a house he built for himself in 1824 located
at 519 Randolph Avenue Steele is also credited with the
design of the Feeney House (414 Randolph Avenue) the
Yeatman House (528 Adams Street) the Cox House (311
Lincoln Street) the Cabaniss House (603 Randolph
Avenue) the second Madison County Courthouse (no
longer extant) Mary Bibbrsquos Mausoleum (Maple Hill
Cemetery) Oak Place (808 Maysville Road) Pope
Mansion (403 Echols Avenue) the old Episcopal
binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
18
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p195656965_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
19 Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Figure 4 George Gilliam Steele picture
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County
Public Library
7
Church of the Nativity on the corner of Eustis and Greene (no longer extant) the Fearn House
(517 Franklin Avenue) the Figures House (423 Randolph Avenue) the Presidentrsquos House (413
Randolph Avenue) Huntsville Female College (no longer extant) and Huntsville Female
Seminary School (no longer extant) George Steele died on October 21 1855 and was buried in
Maple Hill Cemetery20
His obituary in the ldquoSouthern Advocaterdquo read
Capt George Steele was born in Virginia in Bedford County on the ___
He resided up to his death the 21st inst in his 58
th year It is not the language of
the idle panegyric to say that George Steele was a man of marked individuality ndash
of positive characteristics and of impressive being There was nothing passive
doubtful or unreliable about him He was open and bold in expression and
prompt and energetic in action ndash Upon all questions affecting private or public
W__ [well] he had an opinion and could be placed by the most casual observer
He was loyal and sure() to those who loved him abt() but to those men
who sought him sweet as summer He was a warm and confiding friend never
forgetting a favor or a kindness and ready to spend and be spent aid of those who
survived his confidence
Capt Steelersquos life was an active one He grappled with the stern realities of
existence at the very threshold of manhood Without the adventurous and _____
way through all obstacles and over powerful opposition He was
self-educated ndash physically mechanically mentally artistically Of an iron will
indomitable energy and keen sagacity he met difficulties but overcame them and
kept straight on in the goal of merited success He was eminently a practical man-
a cultivated Mechanic ndash a Master builder ndash an accomplished Architect He had
not only learnt the drudgery of this profession but even passed beyond and
became an undertaker a designer a creator His judgment his taste his artistic
skill have become institutional They are seen open to the light of day manifest
the most obtuse in the Public Buildings in Huntsville ndash the Bank Court House
Blossom Institute Female Seminary Episcopal and Cumberland Churches many
of the residences in town and his own beautiful and tastefully adorned mansion
Huntsville is noted abroad for its improvements and public buildings To no one
so much as George Steele is the town indebted for its reputation His advice his
taste his hand are visible everywhere and for the better too He looked not only
to the present but to the future in all that he advised planned or executed and
Huntsville will long have cause to be grateful to his memory
Capt Steele was of a warm generous impulsive nature He was not free of
faults who that is mortal is But they were mere specks in the pure gold of his
character ndash ldquoHis faults lie gently on himrdquo Menrsquos virtues we would have live in
brass and their evil manners write in water His public character is known and
appreciated in this community where he lived moved and had his being so long
as usefully ndash as just ___and liberal in his dealings
20
Bayer 5-21
8
It was at home that George Steele also lived to benefit others There he lavished
his kindness and provided care over all dependent on him A kind husband an
indulgent yet not foolish father and a good master was the center of his family ndash
spared no pains apart and no expense in whatever ministered to their welfare
comfort or happiness Knowing the advantages of education by the lack of them
in his youth all his children were trained in the path of knowledge at the best
institutions He labored upwards to improve to elevate to educate the hand the
heart the mind the manners
His life was a successful one ndash a boisterous backward unpromising Spring ndash a
g___ grieving warm Summer an abundant yet short Autumn his demise sunk
into his ___ and his untimely ___ cut him off ___ was Winter with him And that
was mortal of him ___ gone from us ndash ldquolarge was his bounty and his soul
sincererdquo Let us imitate him in all the great good in his character which we are
still ___ and with a knowledge that we too are mortal and erring creatures21
Steele has long been attributed to the design of the Branch Bank building but is not the
only person to leave his mark on the structure According to the Lacy account book the building
was built with the help of several local subcontractors carpenters and masons including James
M Venable who ldquocovered the bank with sundry coppersrdquo Hugh N Moore who completed the
carpentry work William Hale who completed the painting Edward T and R Parker who
ldquoprovided the iron railings and installed them Thomas and William Brandon who completed the
stone and brick work Justin Dyer who was a subcontractor for the Brandon brothers and
Frederick Elgin who completed the stucco work for the slave quarters22
21 Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
22
Brantley 377-378
9
The Panic of 1837
Figure 5 Political Cartoon by HR Robinson depicting the Panic of 1837 Print courtesy of the Library of
Congressrsquo Prints amp Photographs Catalog
Shortly after construction on the Branch Bank began the country experienced a large
scale panic known widely as the Panic of 1837 The Panic of 1837 has long been attributed to a
real estate bubble and inconsistent American banking policies The crisis began in 1836 when
the Bank of the United States lost its charter this in turn allowed the nationrsquos banks to issue
private banknotes unsupported by gold or silver Shortly thereafter President Andrew Jackson
passed the Specie Circular of 1836 This executive order was a reaction to excessive land
speculation and the use of unsupported paper money printed by sundry banks to purchase land
The order only allowed the purchase of government land using gold or silver By 1837 the
banks refused to redeem banknotes effectively shutting down commerce The initial Panic of
1837 and the subsequent depression that followed lasted for six-years23
The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville weathered this national
storm for a time In an annual report for the bank published in the November 18 1837 issue of
ldquoThe Democratrdquo Bank President Bartley M Lowe wrote
23
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012 httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
10
The statement of the ldquogeneral liabilities of the Bank and means to meet themrdquo
made without reference to the periods when those liabilities become due shows a
surplus of $16434442 Taking into consideration the late derangements in the
fiscal concerns of the country from the effects of which no banking institution
has been exempt a more favorable state of things could scarcely have been
anticipated and were it proper to close this communication here the friends of
this Branch might congratulate themselves on its prosperous condition24
All of the branches of the State Bank of Alabama including the branch at Huntsville
eventually succumbed to the pressures of the Panic of 183725
By February 4 1843 an Act
passed by the General Assembly allowed for the liquidation of the Branch of the Bank of the
State of Alabama at Huntsville26
After the Branch Bank at Huntsvillersquos charter expired January
1 1844 a commission was appointed in 1846 by order of the state legislature to ldquoonly continue
in operation for the security and collection of debts due to said Branch Bank and for the
settlement and liquidation of its affairsrdquo27
The committee completed its task by 1853 and the
bank building and land was sold in October of 185428
24
BM Lowe Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat (October 31 1837 Huntsville) 1
25 Linda Bayer George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief History 1
26
CC Clay comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama (Alabama Marmaduke J Slade 1843) 43
27
Bayer 1
28 The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z (Huntsville October 14
1854) 597Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z( Huntsville October 25
1854) 596 John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed Book BB
(Huntsville July 10 1857) 218-219 The deed dated July 10 1857 between John Whiting and Stephen Ewing is a later published document of an agreement made during the original purchase of the Bank property in 1837 A deed dated March 15 1837 between Stephen Ewing and the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville states that Ewing conveyed a parcel of land located on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row to the Branch Bank for the sum of $800000 The later deed dated July 101857 states ldquoMr Ewing having determined to take the House and lot owned by the Bank and receive the $1750 in exchange for the whole of his property on the bluff according to the proposition made to him at the last meeting_ Ordered that the President make to Mr Ewing a Deed for the lot sold to him and receive from him a Deed for the property sold by him to the bankrdquo The deed then goes on to say ldquoAnd whereas the said Stephen S Ewing afterwards on the 15
th day of March 1837 delivered
to the said Branch Bank a Deed of Conveyance of that date from him and his wife duly executed and acknowledged for the said property on the bluff And whereas no deed was ever made by the President of said Branch Bank or by any other person in pursuance of said resolution to the said Branch Bankrdquo It appears from these two records that Ewing made an agreement with the State Bank to exchange the property that he owned on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row for a plot of land and building that the Bank owned plus $175000 While Ewing held up his side of the agreement by creating a deed of sale in 1837 the Bank did not complete this task until 1857 after the Bank and land sold to the Nothern Bank of Alabama
11
The Northern Bank of Alabama and the Civil War (1852-1865)
Figure 6 Union occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1862 Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison
County Public Library
The Northern Bank of Alabama finalized the purchase of the bank house and lot in
October 1854 The bank remained in the possession of the Northern Bank of Alabama for fifteen
years Like the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville the Northern Bank of
Alabama was destined to face turmoil29
On April 12th
1861 the American Civil War tore
through the country marking the beginning of a tumultuous time in Huntsville
By and large Huntsville was a divided town prior to and during the Civil War
Huntsville composed of both landed gentry and yeoman farmers supported both Confederate
and Union sympathizers Despite the rift the fate of Huntsville like many towns and cities in
the south was irrevocably impacted by the Civil War30
Union troops led by General Ormsby M Mitchel seized control of Huntsville on the
morning of April 11 1862 Troops composed of the Indiana 5th
Independent Light Artillery 37th
29
Ibid 30
Taylor M Polites The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013 httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
12
Infantry the Illinois 19th
and 24th
Infantry and the Ohio 4th
Cavalry and 18th
Infantry led a
surprise attack on the city and Huntsville yielded to the encroaching Union Army with little
opposition31
One onlooker reported ldquothe clattering noise of the cavalry aroused them from their
slumber in the dawn of the morning and they flocked to door and window exclaiming with
blanched cheek and faltering tongue lsquoThey come They come The Yankees comersquordquo32
The interest of the Union army in Huntsville centered primarily on the capture of the
Huntsville Depot which served the Memphis and Charleston Railroads This particular junction
served as a major supply artery for the Confederate army the capture of which would help to
wound the rebel forces A Nashville newspaper Daily Union further described the situation
This Memphis and Charleston road is the only connection left the rebels between
Louisiana Mississippi and all Alabama west of Pensacola and the Southern
seaboard States Troops can only be sent east from New Orleans Natchez
Vicksburg Jackson Memphis Baton Rouge or Mobile or those points from
Virginia North or South Carolina or Georgia over the Memphis and Charleston
road the only railroad line now connecting the east and west of the rebellion Let
that road be once broken and the Southern Confederacy is cut into as effectually
as if a Chinese wall were built between the Gulf and the seaboard States33
Several buildings and homes in Huntsville were occupied by the Union army and were
used primarily as headquarters and encampments During the Civil War the Northern Bank of
Alabama was used as the commissary for Union troops (See figure 12) Local lore holds that
prior to the Federal occupation of Huntsville the bankrsquos cashier Theophilus Lacy placed the
bankrsquos funds in a burlap bag which he then hid inside one of the fireplace flues behind the
tellersrsquo cage Primary source documentation to support this tale has not been located34
Huntsville because of the Union occupation during the war escaped much of the terrible
destruction inflicted on other southern towns In general the occupation of Huntsville saw little
resistance Several of the pro-Confederate inhabitants did feel the weight of the occupation
however as Mary Jane Chadick a local Huntsville resident outlines in a diary entry dated April
12 1862 ldquoTruly our town is full of the enemy There is a sentinel at every corner Everybody
keeps the front door locked and I make it a point to answer the bell myself not permitting
children or servants to open it They have been searching the houses today for armshellip Servants
31
Deborah Storey Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml (accessed June 17 2015) Alabama Civil War Battles httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26 2015) Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama
32 Martha B Gabel General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical Review
(July 1971) 16 33
Gabel 14 Victoria Cumbow Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11 2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed June 17 2015)
34 Pat Jones The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review (April-July 1975) 26-27
13
Figure 7 Union Occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1864
Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
are giving information of all the
arms and soldiers who have been
concealedrdquo35
Some reprisal from pro-
Confederate bushwhackers did
occur these attacks escalated as
the occupation went on Mitchel
had difficulty maintaining order
throughout his widely spread
troops In a wire sent to
Washington Mitchel stated
ldquoArmed citizens fire into the
trains cut the telegraph wires
attack the guards of bridges cut
off and destroy my couriers
while guerrilla bands of cavalry
attack whenever there is the
slightest chance of successrdquo36
Mitchel attempted to restore order as is revealed in an April 28
1862 diary entry by Mary Jane Chadick that states ldquoGeneral Mitchel has been in a rage all the
week on account of the cutting of the telegraph wires the tearing up of the railroad track firing
into trains and holds the citizens responsible for the same having had 12 of the most prominent
arrestedrdquo General Mitchel and other Union officers took pains to ensure that the homes and
buildings that they occupied among them the Northern Bank building remained intact Only one
building the First Methodist Church on Greene Street was lost during the occupation when it
was accidentally burned down in January 1864 37
From April 11 1862 until the Civil Warrsquos end on April 9 1865 Federal troops occupied
the City of Huntsville By the warrsquos end a semblance of peace was restored to the City as the
Union occupation was lifted
35
Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
36 Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama 37
Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
5
Efforts to locate the account book have been
unfruitful to date14
According to Brantley the earliest entry
in the Lacy book is a payment made to G amp G
W Steele on July 8 1837 for vault doors
Several entries of payments made to Steele
spanning the years of 1837-1840 highlight the
progress being made on the bankrsquos construction
A receipt entry dated September 14 1840 for the
amount of $106380 was made out to the Steele
brothers ldquoin full of all demands for building the
Bank Houserdquo15
According to Brantley the final
entry in the book reads ldquoby amount of your bill
for building the Banking House as settled by the
Board receipted and filedhellip$3414133rdquo16
Figure 3 Maude McClure Kelly Image courtesy
of Ancestrycom
Architect George Steele-
Considered to be the premiere antebellum architect for the city of Huntsville George
Gilliam Steele was born on April 1 1798 to George and Sally Gilliam Steele in Bedford County
Virginia Steelersquos early life remains largely shrouded and there are no known records that Steele
received any formal architectural training according to his obituary he was self-taught17
Steele
14
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t66885873_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015) Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordamptid=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015) Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birmingham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst (accessed May 07 2015)
15
Brantley 377 16
Ibid 17
Linda Bayer George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation (Spring 1979) 4 F Charles Vaughn Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no 1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-13 Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
6
came to Huntsville from Virginia around 1818 and soon
after began work as a brick-builder In December 1823
Steele married Eliza Ann Weaver (1808-1891)18
The two
had eight children Matthew W Steele (1824-1907) John
F Steele (1826-1903) George G Steele (1828-1859)
Sallie Fleming Steele (1829-1891) Mary Eliza Steele
(1832-1834) Ellen Elizabeth Steele (1832-1834) William
Angelo Steele (1836-1912) and Susan Eliza Steele (1839-
1913)19
Steele continued to expand his professional
repertoire to include architectural design One of his first
designs was a house he built for himself in 1824 located
at 519 Randolph Avenue Steele is also credited with the
design of the Feeney House (414 Randolph Avenue) the
Yeatman House (528 Adams Street) the Cox House (311
Lincoln Street) the Cabaniss House (603 Randolph
Avenue) the second Madison County Courthouse (no
longer extant) Mary Bibbrsquos Mausoleum (Maple Hill
Cemetery) Oak Place (808 Maysville Road) Pope
Mansion (403 Echols Avenue) the old Episcopal
binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
18
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p195656965_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
19 Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Figure 4 George Gilliam Steele picture
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County
Public Library
7
Church of the Nativity on the corner of Eustis and Greene (no longer extant) the Fearn House
(517 Franklin Avenue) the Figures House (423 Randolph Avenue) the Presidentrsquos House (413
Randolph Avenue) Huntsville Female College (no longer extant) and Huntsville Female
Seminary School (no longer extant) George Steele died on October 21 1855 and was buried in
Maple Hill Cemetery20
His obituary in the ldquoSouthern Advocaterdquo read
Capt George Steele was born in Virginia in Bedford County on the ___
He resided up to his death the 21st inst in his 58
th year It is not the language of
the idle panegyric to say that George Steele was a man of marked individuality ndash
of positive characteristics and of impressive being There was nothing passive
doubtful or unreliable about him He was open and bold in expression and
prompt and energetic in action ndash Upon all questions affecting private or public
W__ [well] he had an opinion and could be placed by the most casual observer
He was loyal and sure() to those who loved him abt() but to those men
who sought him sweet as summer He was a warm and confiding friend never
forgetting a favor or a kindness and ready to spend and be spent aid of those who
survived his confidence
Capt Steelersquos life was an active one He grappled with the stern realities of
existence at the very threshold of manhood Without the adventurous and _____
way through all obstacles and over powerful opposition He was
self-educated ndash physically mechanically mentally artistically Of an iron will
indomitable energy and keen sagacity he met difficulties but overcame them and
kept straight on in the goal of merited success He was eminently a practical man-
a cultivated Mechanic ndash a Master builder ndash an accomplished Architect He had
not only learnt the drudgery of this profession but even passed beyond and
became an undertaker a designer a creator His judgment his taste his artistic
skill have become institutional They are seen open to the light of day manifest
the most obtuse in the Public Buildings in Huntsville ndash the Bank Court House
Blossom Institute Female Seminary Episcopal and Cumberland Churches many
of the residences in town and his own beautiful and tastefully adorned mansion
Huntsville is noted abroad for its improvements and public buildings To no one
so much as George Steele is the town indebted for its reputation His advice his
taste his hand are visible everywhere and for the better too He looked not only
to the present but to the future in all that he advised planned or executed and
Huntsville will long have cause to be grateful to his memory
Capt Steele was of a warm generous impulsive nature He was not free of
faults who that is mortal is But they were mere specks in the pure gold of his
character ndash ldquoHis faults lie gently on himrdquo Menrsquos virtues we would have live in
brass and their evil manners write in water His public character is known and
appreciated in this community where he lived moved and had his being so long
as usefully ndash as just ___and liberal in his dealings
20
Bayer 5-21
8
It was at home that George Steele also lived to benefit others There he lavished
his kindness and provided care over all dependent on him A kind husband an
indulgent yet not foolish father and a good master was the center of his family ndash
spared no pains apart and no expense in whatever ministered to their welfare
comfort or happiness Knowing the advantages of education by the lack of them
in his youth all his children were trained in the path of knowledge at the best
institutions He labored upwards to improve to elevate to educate the hand the
heart the mind the manners
His life was a successful one ndash a boisterous backward unpromising Spring ndash a
g___ grieving warm Summer an abundant yet short Autumn his demise sunk
into his ___ and his untimely ___ cut him off ___ was Winter with him And that
was mortal of him ___ gone from us ndash ldquolarge was his bounty and his soul
sincererdquo Let us imitate him in all the great good in his character which we are
still ___ and with a knowledge that we too are mortal and erring creatures21
Steele has long been attributed to the design of the Branch Bank building but is not the
only person to leave his mark on the structure According to the Lacy account book the building
was built with the help of several local subcontractors carpenters and masons including James
M Venable who ldquocovered the bank with sundry coppersrdquo Hugh N Moore who completed the
carpentry work William Hale who completed the painting Edward T and R Parker who
ldquoprovided the iron railings and installed them Thomas and William Brandon who completed the
stone and brick work Justin Dyer who was a subcontractor for the Brandon brothers and
Frederick Elgin who completed the stucco work for the slave quarters22
21 Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
22
Brantley 377-378
9
The Panic of 1837
Figure 5 Political Cartoon by HR Robinson depicting the Panic of 1837 Print courtesy of the Library of
Congressrsquo Prints amp Photographs Catalog
Shortly after construction on the Branch Bank began the country experienced a large
scale panic known widely as the Panic of 1837 The Panic of 1837 has long been attributed to a
real estate bubble and inconsistent American banking policies The crisis began in 1836 when
the Bank of the United States lost its charter this in turn allowed the nationrsquos banks to issue
private banknotes unsupported by gold or silver Shortly thereafter President Andrew Jackson
passed the Specie Circular of 1836 This executive order was a reaction to excessive land
speculation and the use of unsupported paper money printed by sundry banks to purchase land
The order only allowed the purchase of government land using gold or silver By 1837 the
banks refused to redeem banknotes effectively shutting down commerce The initial Panic of
1837 and the subsequent depression that followed lasted for six-years23
The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville weathered this national
storm for a time In an annual report for the bank published in the November 18 1837 issue of
ldquoThe Democratrdquo Bank President Bartley M Lowe wrote
23
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012 httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
10
The statement of the ldquogeneral liabilities of the Bank and means to meet themrdquo
made without reference to the periods when those liabilities become due shows a
surplus of $16434442 Taking into consideration the late derangements in the
fiscal concerns of the country from the effects of which no banking institution
has been exempt a more favorable state of things could scarcely have been
anticipated and were it proper to close this communication here the friends of
this Branch might congratulate themselves on its prosperous condition24
All of the branches of the State Bank of Alabama including the branch at Huntsville
eventually succumbed to the pressures of the Panic of 183725
By February 4 1843 an Act
passed by the General Assembly allowed for the liquidation of the Branch of the Bank of the
State of Alabama at Huntsville26
After the Branch Bank at Huntsvillersquos charter expired January
1 1844 a commission was appointed in 1846 by order of the state legislature to ldquoonly continue
in operation for the security and collection of debts due to said Branch Bank and for the
settlement and liquidation of its affairsrdquo27
The committee completed its task by 1853 and the
bank building and land was sold in October of 185428
24
BM Lowe Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat (October 31 1837 Huntsville) 1
25 Linda Bayer George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief History 1
26
CC Clay comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama (Alabama Marmaduke J Slade 1843) 43
27
Bayer 1
28 The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z (Huntsville October 14
1854) 597Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z( Huntsville October 25
1854) 596 John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed Book BB
(Huntsville July 10 1857) 218-219 The deed dated July 10 1857 between John Whiting and Stephen Ewing is a later published document of an agreement made during the original purchase of the Bank property in 1837 A deed dated March 15 1837 between Stephen Ewing and the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville states that Ewing conveyed a parcel of land located on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row to the Branch Bank for the sum of $800000 The later deed dated July 101857 states ldquoMr Ewing having determined to take the House and lot owned by the Bank and receive the $1750 in exchange for the whole of his property on the bluff according to the proposition made to him at the last meeting_ Ordered that the President make to Mr Ewing a Deed for the lot sold to him and receive from him a Deed for the property sold by him to the bankrdquo The deed then goes on to say ldquoAnd whereas the said Stephen S Ewing afterwards on the 15
th day of March 1837 delivered
to the said Branch Bank a Deed of Conveyance of that date from him and his wife duly executed and acknowledged for the said property on the bluff And whereas no deed was ever made by the President of said Branch Bank or by any other person in pursuance of said resolution to the said Branch Bankrdquo It appears from these two records that Ewing made an agreement with the State Bank to exchange the property that he owned on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row for a plot of land and building that the Bank owned plus $175000 While Ewing held up his side of the agreement by creating a deed of sale in 1837 the Bank did not complete this task until 1857 after the Bank and land sold to the Nothern Bank of Alabama
11
The Northern Bank of Alabama and the Civil War (1852-1865)
Figure 6 Union occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1862 Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison
County Public Library
The Northern Bank of Alabama finalized the purchase of the bank house and lot in
October 1854 The bank remained in the possession of the Northern Bank of Alabama for fifteen
years Like the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville the Northern Bank of
Alabama was destined to face turmoil29
On April 12th
1861 the American Civil War tore
through the country marking the beginning of a tumultuous time in Huntsville
By and large Huntsville was a divided town prior to and during the Civil War
Huntsville composed of both landed gentry and yeoman farmers supported both Confederate
and Union sympathizers Despite the rift the fate of Huntsville like many towns and cities in
the south was irrevocably impacted by the Civil War30
Union troops led by General Ormsby M Mitchel seized control of Huntsville on the
morning of April 11 1862 Troops composed of the Indiana 5th
Independent Light Artillery 37th
29
Ibid 30
Taylor M Polites The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013 httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
12
Infantry the Illinois 19th
and 24th
Infantry and the Ohio 4th
Cavalry and 18th
Infantry led a
surprise attack on the city and Huntsville yielded to the encroaching Union Army with little
opposition31
One onlooker reported ldquothe clattering noise of the cavalry aroused them from their
slumber in the dawn of the morning and they flocked to door and window exclaiming with
blanched cheek and faltering tongue lsquoThey come They come The Yankees comersquordquo32
The interest of the Union army in Huntsville centered primarily on the capture of the
Huntsville Depot which served the Memphis and Charleston Railroads This particular junction
served as a major supply artery for the Confederate army the capture of which would help to
wound the rebel forces A Nashville newspaper Daily Union further described the situation
This Memphis and Charleston road is the only connection left the rebels between
Louisiana Mississippi and all Alabama west of Pensacola and the Southern
seaboard States Troops can only be sent east from New Orleans Natchez
Vicksburg Jackson Memphis Baton Rouge or Mobile or those points from
Virginia North or South Carolina or Georgia over the Memphis and Charleston
road the only railroad line now connecting the east and west of the rebellion Let
that road be once broken and the Southern Confederacy is cut into as effectually
as if a Chinese wall were built between the Gulf and the seaboard States33
Several buildings and homes in Huntsville were occupied by the Union army and were
used primarily as headquarters and encampments During the Civil War the Northern Bank of
Alabama was used as the commissary for Union troops (See figure 12) Local lore holds that
prior to the Federal occupation of Huntsville the bankrsquos cashier Theophilus Lacy placed the
bankrsquos funds in a burlap bag which he then hid inside one of the fireplace flues behind the
tellersrsquo cage Primary source documentation to support this tale has not been located34
Huntsville because of the Union occupation during the war escaped much of the terrible
destruction inflicted on other southern towns In general the occupation of Huntsville saw little
resistance Several of the pro-Confederate inhabitants did feel the weight of the occupation
however as Mary Jane Chadick a local Huntsville resident outlines in a diary entry dated April
12 1862 ldquoTruly our town is full of the enemy There is a sentinel at every corner Everybody
keeps the front door locked and I make it a point to answer the bell myself not permitting
children or servants to open it They have been searching the houses today for armshellip Servants
31
Deborah Storey Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml (accessed June 17 2015) Alabama Civil War Battles httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26 2015) Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama
32 Martha B Gabel General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical Review
(July 1971) 16 33
Gabel 14 Victoria Cumbow Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11 2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed June 17 2015)
34 Pat Jones The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review (April-July 1975) 26-27
13
Figure 7 Union Occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1864
Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
are giving information of all the
arms and soldiers who have been
concealedrdquo35
Some reprisal from pro-
Confederate bushwhackers did
occur these attacks escalated as
the occupation went on Mitchel
had difficulty maintaining order
throughout his widely spread
troops In a wire sent to
Washington Mitchel stated
ldquoArmed citizens fire into the
trains cut the telegraph wires
attack the guards of bridges cut
off and destroy my couriers
while guerrilla bands of cavalry
attack whenever there is the
slightest chance of successrdquo36
Mitchel attempted to restore order as is revealed in an April 28
1862 diary entry by Mary Jane Chadick that states ldquoGeneral Mitchel has been in a rage all the
week on account of the cutting of the telegraph wires the tearing up of the railroad track firing
into trains and holds the citizens responsible for the same having had 12 of the most prominent
arrestedrdquo General Mitchel and other Union officers took pains to ensure that the homes and
buildings that they occupied among them the Northern Bank building remained intact Only one
building the First Methodist Church on Greene Street was lost during the occupation when it
was accidentally burned down in January 1864 37
From April 11 1862 until the Civil Warrsquos end on April 9 1865 Federal troops occupied
the City of Huntsville By the warrsquos end a semblance of peace was restored to the City as the
Union occupation was lifted
35
Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
36 Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama 37
Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
6
came to Huntsville from Virginia around 1818 and soon
after began work as a brick-builder In December 1823
Steele married Eliza Ann Weaver (1808-1891)18
The two
had eight children Matthew W Steele (1824-1907) John
F Steele (1826-1903) George G Steele (1828-1859)
Sallie Fleming Steele (1829-1891) Mary Eliza Steele
(1832-1834) Ellen Elizabeth Steele (1832-1834) William
Angelo Steele (1836-1912) and Susan Eliza Steele (1839-
1913)19
Steele continued to expand his professional
repertoire to include architectural design One of his first
designs was a house he built for himself in 1824 located
at 519 Randolph Avenue Steele is also credited with the
design of the Feeney House (414 Randolph Avenue) the
Yeatman House (528 Adams Street) the Cox House (311
Lincoln Street) the Cabaniss House (603 Randolph
Avenue) the second Madison County Courthouse (no
longer extant) Mary Bibbrsquos Mausoleum (Maple Hill
Cemetery) Oak Place (808 Maysville Road) Pope
Mansion (403 Echols Avenue) the old Episcopal
binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
18
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p195656965_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
19 Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015) Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Figure 4 George Gilliam Steele picture
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County
Public Library
7
Church of the Nativity on the corner of Eustis and Greene (no longer extant) the Fearn House
(517 Franklin Avenue) the Figures House (423 Randolph Avenue) the Presidentrsquos House (413
Randolph Avenue) Huntsville Female College (no longer extant) and Huntsville Female
Seminary School (no longer extant) George Steele died on October 21 1855 and was buried in
Maple Hill Cemetery20
His obituary in the ldquoSouthern Advocaterdquo read
Capt George Steele was born in Virginia in Bedford County on the ___
He resided up to his death the 21st inst in his 58
th year It is not the language of
the idle panegyric to say that George Steele was a man of marked individuality ndash
of positive characteristics and of impressive being There was nothing passive
doubtful or unreliable about him He was open and bold in expression and
prompt and energetic in action ndash Upon all questions affecting private or public
W__ [well] he had an opinion and could be placed by the most casual observer
He was loyal and sure() to those who loved him abt() but to those men
who sought him sweet as summer He was a warm and confiding friend never
forgetting a favor or a kindness and ready to spend and be spent aid of those who
survived his confidence
Capt Steelersquos life was an active one He grappled with the stern realities of
existence at the very threshold of manhood Without the adventurous and _____
way through all obstacles and over powerful opposition He was
self-educated ndash physically mechanically mentally artistically Of an iron will
indomitable energy and keen sagacity he met difficulties but overcame them and
kept straight on in the goal of merited success He was eminently a practical man-
a cultivated Mechanic ndash a Master builder ndash an accomplished Architect He had
not only learnt the drudgery of this profession but even passed beyond and
became an undertaker a designer a creator His judgment his taste his artistic
skill have become institutional They are seen open to the light of day manifest
the most obtuse in the Public Buildings in Huntsville ndash the Bank Court House
Blossom Institute Female Seminary Episcopal and Cumberland Churches many
of the residences in town and his own beautiful and tastefully adorned mansion
Huntsville is noted abroad for its improvements and public buildings To no one
so much as George Steele is the town indebted for its reputation His advice his
taste his hand are visible everywhere and for the better too He looked not only
to the present but to the future in all that he advised planned or executed and
Huntsville will long have cause to be grateful to his memory
Capt Steele was of a warm generous impulsive nature He was not free of
faults who that is mortal is But they were mere specks in the pure gold of his
character ndash ldquoHis faults lie gently on himrdquo Menrsquos virtues we would have live in
brass and their evil manners write in water His public character is known and
appreciated in this community where he lived moved and had his being so long
as usefully ndash as just ___and liberal in his dealings
20
Bayer 5-21
8
It was at home that George Steele also lived to benefit others There he lavished
his kindness and provided care over all dependent on him A kind husband an
indulgent yet not foolish father and a good master was the center of his family ndash
spared no pains apart and no expense in whatever ministered to their welfare
comfort or happiness Knowing the advantages of education by the lack of them
in his youth all his children were trained in the path of knowledge at the best
institutions He labored upwards to improve to elevate to educate the hand the
heart the mind the manners
His life was a successful one ndash a boisterous backward unpromising Spring ndash a
g___ grieving warm Summer an abundant yet short Autumn his demise sunk
into his ___ and his untimely ___ cut him off ___ was Winter with him And that
was mortal of him ___ gone from us ndash ldquolarge was his bounty and his soul
sincererdquo Let us imitate him in all the great good in his character which we are
still ___ and with a knowledge that we too are mortal and erring creatures21
Steele has long been attributed to the design of the Branch Bank building but is not the
only person to leave his mark on the structure According to the Lacy account book the building
was built with the help of several local subcontractors carpenters and masons including James
M Venable who ldquocovered the bank with sundry coppersrdquo Hugh N Moore who completed the
carpentry work William Hale who completed the painting Edward T and R Parker who
ldquoprovided the iron railings and installed them Thomas and William Brandon who completed the
stone and brick work Justin Dyer who was a subcontractor for the Brandon brothers and
Frederick Elgin who completed the stucco work for the slave quarters22
21 Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
22
Brantley 377-378
9
The Panic of 1837
Figure 5 Political Cartoon by HR Robinson depicting the Panic of 1837 Print courtesy of the Library of
Congressrsquo Prints amp Photographs Catalog
Shortly after construction on the Branch Bank began the country experienced a large
scale panic known widely as the Panic of 1837 The Panic of 1837 has long been attributed to a
real estate bubble and inconsistent American banking policies The crisis began in 1836 when
the Bank of the United States lost its charter this in turn allowed the nationrsquos banks to issue
private banknotes unsupported by gold or silver Shortly thereafter President Andrew Jackson
passed the Specie Circular of 1836 This executive order was a reaction to excessive land
speculation and the use of unsupported paper money printed by sundry banks to purchase land
The order only allowed the purchase of government land using gold or silver By 1837 the
banks refused to redeem banknotes effectively shutting down commerce The initial Panic of
1837 and the subsequent depression that followed lasted for six-years23
The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville weathered this national
storm for a time In an annual report for the bank published in the November 18 1837 issue of
ldquoThe Democratrdquo Bank President Bartley M Lowe wrote
23
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012 httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
10
The statement of the ldquogeneral liabilities of the Bank and means to meet themrdquo
made without reference to the periods when those liabilities become due shows a
surplus of $16434442 Taking into consideration the late derangements in the
fiscal concerns of the country from the effects of which no banking institution
has been exempt a more favorable state of things could scarcely have been
anticipated and were it proper to close this communication here the friends of
this Branch might congratulate themselves on its prosperous condition24
All of the branches of the State Bank of Alabama including the branch at Huntsville
eventually succumbed to the pressures of the Panic of 183725
By February 4 1843 an Act
passed by the General Assembly allowed for the liquidation of the Branch of the Bank of the
State of Alabama at Huntsville26
After the Branch Bank at Huntsvillersquos charter expired January
1 1844 a commission was appointed in 1846 by order of the state legislature to ldquoonly continue
in operation for the security and collection of debts due to said Branch Bank and for the
settlement and liquidation of its affairsrdquo27
The committee completed its task by 1853 and the
bank building and land was sold in October of 185428
24
BM Lowe Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat (October 31 1837 Huntsville) 1
25 Linda Bayer George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief History 1
26
CC Clay comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama (Alabama Marmaduke J Slade 1843) 43
27
Bayer 1
28 The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z (Huntsville October 14
1854) 597Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z( Huntsville October 25
1854) 596 John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed Book BB
(Huntsville July 10 1857) 218-219 The deed dated July 10 1857 between John Whiting and Stephen Ewing is a later published document of an agreement made during the original purchase of the Bank property in 1837 A deed dated March 15 1837 between Stephen Ewing and the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville states that Ewing conveyed a parcel of land located on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row to the Branch Bank for the sum of $800000 The later deed dated July 101857 states ldquoMr Ewing having determined to take the House and lot owned by the Bank and receive the $1750 in exchange for the whole of his property on the bluff according to the proposition made to him at the last meeting_ Ordered that the President make to Mr Ewing a Deed for the lot sold to him and receive from him a Deed for the property sold by him to the bankrdquo The deed then goes on to say ldquoAnd whereas the said Stephen S Ewing afterwards on the 15
th day of March 1837 delivered
to the said Branch Bank a Deed of Conveyance of that date from him and his wife duly executed and acknowledged for the said property on the bluff And whereas no deed was ever made by the President of said Branch Bank or by any other person in pursuance of said resolution to the said Branch Bankrdquo It appears from these two records that Ewing made an agreement with the State Bank to exchange the property that he owned on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row for a plot of land and building that the Bank owned plus $175000 While Ewing held up his side of the agreement by creating a deed of sale in 1837 the Bank did not complete this task until 1857 after the Bank and land sold to the Nothern Bank of Alabama
11
The Northern Bank of Alabama and the Civil War (1852-1865)
Figure 6 Union occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1862 Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison
County Public Library
The Northern Bank of Alabama finalized the purchase of the bank house and lot in
October 1854 The bank remained in the possession of the Northern Bank of Alabama for fifteen
years Like the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville the Northern Bank of
Alabama was destined to face turmoil29
On April 12th
1861 the American Civil War tore
through the country marking the beginning of a tumultuous time in Huntsville
By and large Huntsville was a divided town prior to and during the Civil War
Huntsville composed of both landed gentry and yeoman farmers supported both Confederate
and Union sympathizers Despite the rift the fate of Huntsville like many towns and cities in
the south was irrevocably impacted by the Civil War30
Union troops led by General Ormsby M Mitchel seized control of Huntsville on the
morning of April 11 1862 Troops composed of the Indiana 5th
Independent Light Artillery 37th
29
Ibid 30
Taylor M Polites The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013 httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
12
Infantry the Illinois 19th
and 24th
Infantry and the Ohio 4th
Cavalry and 18th
Infantry led a
surprise attack on the city and Huntsville yielded to the encroaching Union Army with little
opposition31
One onlooker reported ldquothe clattering noise of the cavalry aroused them from their
slumber in the dawn of the morning and they flocked to door and window exclaiming with
blanched cheek and faltering tongue lsquoThey come They come The Yankees comersquordquo32
The interest of the Union army in Huntsville centered primarily on the capture of the
Huntsville Depot which served the Memphis and Charleston Railroads This particular junction
served as a major supply artery for the Confederate army the capture of which would help to
wound the rebel forces A Nashville newspaper Daily Union further described the situation
This Memphis and Charleston road is the only connection left the rebels between
Louisiana Mississippi and all Alabama west of Pensacola and the Southern
seaboard States Troops can only be sent east from New Orleans Natchez
Vicksburg Jackson Memphis Baton Rouge or Mobile or those points from
Virginia North or South Carolina or Georgia over the Memphis and Charleston
road the only railroad line now connecting the east and west of the rebellion Let
that road be once broken and the Southern Confederacy is cut into as effectually
as if a Chinese wall were built between the Gulf and the seaboard States33
Several buildings and homes in Huntsville were occupied by the Union army and were
used primarily as headquarters and encampments During the Civil War the Northern Bank of
Alabama was used as the commissary for Union troops (See figure 12) Local lore holds that
prior to the Federal occupation of Huntsville the bankrsquos cashier Theophilus Lacy placed the
bankrsquos funds in a burlap bag which he then hid inside one of the fireplace flues behind the
tellersrsquo cage Primary source documentation to support this tale has not been located34
Huntsville because of the Union occupation during the war escaped much of the terrible
destruction inflicted on other southern towns In general the occupation of Huntsville saw little
resistance Several of the pro-Confederate inhabitants did feel the weight of the occupation
however as Mary Jane Chadick a local Huntsville resident outlines in a diary entry dated April
12 1862 ldquoTruly our town is full of the enemy There is a sentinel at every corner Everybody
keeps the front door locked and I make it a point to answer the bell myself not permitting
children or servants to open it They have been searching the houses today for armshellip Servants
31
Deborah Storey Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml (accessed June 17 2015) Alabama Civil War Battles httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26 2015) Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama
32 Martha B Gabel General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical Review
(July 1971) 16 33
Gabel 14 Victoria Cumbow Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11 2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed June 17 2015)
34 Pat Jones The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review (April-July 1975) 26-27
13
Figure 7 Union Occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1864
Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
are giving information of all the
arms and soldiers who have been
concealedrdquo35
Some reprisal from pro-
Confederate bushwhackers did
occur these attacks escalated as
the occupation went on Mitchel
had difficulty maintaining order
throughout his widely spread
troops In a wire sent to
Washington Mitchel stated
ldquoArmed citizens fire into the
trains cut the telegraph wires
attack the guards of bridges cut
off and destroy my couriers
while guerrilla bands of cavalry
attack whenever there is the
slightest chance of successrdquo36
Mitchel attempted to restore order as is revealed in an April 28
1862 diary entry by Mary Jane Chadick that states ldquoGeneral Mitchel has been in a rage all the
week on account of the cutting of the telegraph wires the tearing up of the railroad track firing
into trains and holds the citizens responsible for the same having had 12 of the most prominent
arrestedrdquo General Mitchel and other Union officers took pains to ensure that the homes and
buildings that they occupied among them the Northern Bank building remained intact Only one
building the First Methodist Church on Greene Street was lost during the occupation when it
was accidentally burned down in January 1864 37
From April 11 1862 until the Civil Warrsquos end on April 9 1865 Federal troops occupied
the City of Huntsville By the warrsquos end a semblance of peace was restored to the City as the
Union occupation was lifted
35
Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
36 Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama 37
Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
7
Church of the Nativity on the corner of Eustis and Greene (no longer extant) the Fearn House
(517 Franklin Avenue) the Figures House (423 Randolph Avenue) the Presidentrsquos House (413
Randolph Avenue) Huntsville Female College (no longer extant) and Huntsville Female
Seminary School (no longer extant) George Steele died on October 21 1855 and was buried in
Maple Hill Cemetery20
His obituary in the ldquoSouthern Advocaterdquo read
Capt George Steele was born in Virginia in Bedford County on the ___
He resided up to his death the 21st inst in his 58
th year It is not the language of
the idle panegyric to say that George Steele was a man of marked individuality ndash
of positive characteristics and of impressive being There was nothing passive
doubtful or unreliable about him He was open and bold in expression and
prompt and energetic in action ndash Upon all questions affecting private or public
W__ [well] he had an opinion and could be placed by the most casual observer
He was loyal and sure() to those who loved him abt() but to those men
who sought him sweet as summer He was a warm and confiding friend never
forgetting a favor or a kindness and ready to spend and be spent aid of those who
survived his confidence
Capt Steelersquos life was an active one He grappled with the stern realities of
existence at the very threshold of manhood Without the adventurous and _____
way through all obstacles and over powerful opposition He was
self-educated ndash physically mechanically mentally artistically Of an iron will
indomitable energy and keen sagacity he met difficulties but overcame them and
kept straight on in the goal of merited success He was eminently a practical man-
a cultivated Mechanic ndash a Master builder ndash an accomplished Architect He had
not only learnt the drudgery of this profession but even passed beyond and
became an undertaker a designer a creator His judgment his taste his artistic
skill have become institutional They are seen open to the light of day manifest
the most obtuse in the Public Buildings in Huntsville ndash the Bank Court House
Blossom Institute Female Seminary Episcopal and Cumberland Churches many
of the residences in town and his own beautiful and tastefully adorned mansion
Huntsville is noted abroad for its improvements and public buildings To no one
so much as George Steele is the town indebted for its reputation His advice his
taste his hand are visible everywhere and for the better too He looked not only
to the present but to the future in all that he advised planned or executed and
Huntsville will long have cause to be grateful to his memory
Capt Steele was of a warm generous impulsive nature He was not free of
faults who that is mortal is But they were mere specks in the pure gold of his
character ndash ldquoHis faults lie gently on himrdquo Menrsquos virtues we would have live in
brass and their evil manners write in water His public character is known and
appreciated in this community where he lived moved and had his being so long
as usefully ndash as just ___and liberal in his dealings
20
Bayer 5-21
8
It was at home that George Steele also lived to benefit others There he lavished
his kindness and provided care over all dependent on him A kind husband an
indulgent yet not foolish father and a good master was the center of his family ndash
spared no pains apart and no expense in whatever ministered to their welfare
comfort or happiness Knowing the advantages of education by the lack of them
in his youth all his children were trained in the path of knowledge at the best
institutions He labored upwards to improve to elevate to educate the hand the
heart the mind the manners
His life was a successful one ndash a boisterous backward unpromising Spring ndash a
g___ grieving warm Summer an abundant yet short Autumn his demise sunk
into his ___ and his untimely ___ cut him off ___ was Winter with him And that
was mortal of him ___ gone from us ndash ldquolarge was his bounty and his soul
sincererdquo Let us imitate him in all the great good in his character which we are
still ___ and with a knowledge that we too are mortal and erring creatures21
Steele has long been attributed to the design of the Branch Bank building but is not the
only person to leave his mark on the structure According to the Lacy account book the building
was built with the help of several local subcontractors carpenters and masons including James
M Venable who ldquocovered the bank with sundry coppersrdquo Hugh N Moore who completed the
carpentry work William Hale who completed the painting Edward T and R Parker who
ldquoprovided the iron railings and installed them Thomas and William Brandon who completed the
stone and brick work Justin Dyer who was a subcontractor for the Brandon brothers and
Frederick Elgin who completed the stucco work for the slave quarters22
21 Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
22
Brantley 377-378
9
The Panic of 1837
Figure 5 Political Cartoon by HR Robinson depicting the Panic of 1837 Print courtesy of the Library of
Congressrsquo Prints amp Photographs Catalog
Shortly after construction on the Branch Bank began the country experienced a large
scale panic known widely as the Panic of 1837 The Panic of 1837 has long been attributed to a
real estate bubble and inconsistent American banking policies The crisis began in 1836 when
the Bank of the United States lost its charter this in turn allowed the nationrsquos banks to issue
private banknotes unsupported by gold or silver Shortly thereafter President Andrew Jackson
passed the Specie Circular of 1836 This executive order was a reaction to excessive land
speculation and the use of unsupported paper money printed by sundry banks to purchase land
The order only allowed the purchase of government land using gold or silver By 1837 the
banks refused to redeem banknotes effectively shutting down commerce The initial Panic of
1837 and the subsequent depression that followed lasted for six-years23
The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville weathered this national
storm for a time In an annual report for the bank published in the November 18 1837 issue of
ldquoThe Democratrdquo Bank President Bartley M Lowe wrote
23
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012 httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
10
The statement of the ldquogeneral liabilities of the Bank and means to meet themrdquo
made without reference to the periods when those liabilities become due shows a
surplus of $16434442 Taking into consideration the late derangements in the
fiscal concerns of the country from the effects of which no banking institution
has been exempt a more favorable state of things could scarcely have been
anticipated and were it proper to close this communication here the friends of
this Branch might congratulate themselves on its prosperous condition24
All of the branches of the State Bank of Alabama including the branch at Huntsville
eventually succumbed to the pressures of the Panic of 183725
By February 4 1843 an Act
passed by the General Assembly allowed for the liquidation of the Branch of the Bank of the
State of Alabama at Huntsville26
After the Branch Bank at Huntsvillersquos charter expired January
1 1844 a commission was appointed in 1846 by order of the state legislature to ldquoonly continue
in operation for the security and collection of debts due to said Branch Bank and for the
settlement and liquidation of its affairsrdquo27
The committee completed its task by 1853 and the
bank building and land was sold in October of 185428
24
BM Lowe Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat (October 31 1837 Huntsville) 1
25 Linda Bayer George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief History 1
26
CC Clay comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama (Alabama Marmaduke J Slade 1843) 43
27
Bayer 1
28 The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z (Huntsville October 14
1854) 597Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z( Huntsville October 25
1854) 596 John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed Book BB
(Huntsville July 10 1857) 218-219 The deed dated July 10 1857 between John Whiting and Stephen Ewing is a later published document of an agreement made during the original purchase of the Bank property in 1837 A deed dated March 15 1837 between Stephen Ewing and the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville states that Ewing conveyed a parcel of land located on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row to the Branch Bank for the sum of $800000 The later deed dated July 101857 states ldquoMr Ewing having determined to take the House and lot owned by the Bank and receive the $1750 in exchange for the whole of his property on the bluff according to the proposition made to him at the last meeting_ Ordered that the President make to Mr Ewing a Deed for the lot sold to him and receive from him a Deed for the property sold by him to the bankrdquo The deed then goes on to say ldquoAnd whereas the said Stephen S Ewing afterwards on the 15
th day of March 1837 delivered
to the said Branch Bank a Deed of Conveyance of that date from him and his wife duly executed and acknowledged for the said property on the bluff And whereas no deed was ever made by the President of said Branch Bank or by any other person in pursuance of said resolution to the said Branch Bankrdquo It appears from these two records that Ewing made an agreement with the State Bank to exchange the property that he owned on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row for a plot of land and building that the Bank owned plus $175000 While Ewing held up his side of the agreement by creating a deed of sale in 1837 the Bank did not complete this task until 1857 after the Bank and land sold to the Nothern Bank of Alabama
11
The Northern Bank of Alabama and the Civil War (1852-1865)
Figure 6 Union occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1862 Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison
County Public Library
The Northern Bank of Alabama finalized the purchase of the bank house and lot in
October 1854 The bank remained in the possession of the Northern Bank of Alabama for fifteen
years Like the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville the Northern Bank of
Alabama was destined to face turmoil29
On April 12th
1861 the American Civil War tore
through the country marking the beginning of a tumultuous time in Huntsville
By and large Huntsville was a divided town prior to and during the Civil War
Huntsville composed of both landed gentry and yeoman farmers supported both Confederate
and Union sympathizers Despite the rift the fate of Huntsville like many towns and cities in
the south was irrevocably impacted by the Civil War30
Union troops led by General Ormsby M Mitchel seized control of Huntsville on the
morning of April 11 1862 Troops composed of the Indiana 5th
Independent Light Artillery 37th
29
Ibid 30
Taylor M Polites The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013 httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
12
Infantry the Illinois 19th
and 24th
Infantry and the Ohio 4th
Cavalry and 18th
Infantry led a
surprise attack on the city and Huntsville yielded to the encroaching Union Army with little
opposition31
One onlooker reported ldquothe clattering noise of the cavalry aroused them from their
slumber in the dawn of the morning and they flocked to door and window exclaiming with
blanched cheek and faltering tongue lsquoThey come They come The Yankees comersquordquo32
The interest of the Union army in Huntsville centered primarily on the capture of the
Huntsville Depot which served the Memphis and Charleston Railroads This particular junction
served as a major supply artery for the Confederate army the capture of which would help to
wound the rebel forces A Nashville newspaper Daily Union further described the situation
This Memphis and Charleston road is the only connection left the rebels between
Louisiana Mississippi and all Alabama west of Pensacola and the Southern
seaboard States Troops can only be sent east from New Orleans Natchez
Vicksburg Jackson Memphis Baton Rouge or Mobile or those points from
Virginia North or South Carolina or Georgia over the Memphis and Charleston
road the only railroad line now connecting the east and west of the rebellion Let
that road be once broken and the Southern Confederacy is cut into as effectually
as if a Chinese wall were built between the Gulf and the seaboard States33
Several buildings and homes in Huntsville were occupied by the Union army and were
used primarily as headquarters and encampments During the Civil War the Northern Bank of
Alabama was used as the commissary for Union troops (See figure 12) Local lore holds that
prior to the Federal occupation of Huntsville the bankrsquos cashier Theophilus Lacy placed the
bankrsquos funds in a burlap bag which he then hid inside one of the fireplace flues behind the
tellersrsquo cage Primary source documentation to support this tale has not been located34
Huntsville because of the Union occupation during the war escaped much of the terrible
destruction inflicted on other southern towns In general the occupation of Huntsville saw little
resistance Several of the pro-Confederate inhabitants did feel the weight of the occupation
however as Mary Jane Chadick a local Huntsville resident outlines in a diary entry dated April
12 1862 ldquoTruly our town is full of the enemy There is a sentinel at every corner Everybody
keeps the front door locked and I make it a point to answer the bell myself not permitting
children or servants to open it They have been searching the houses today for armshellip Servants
31
Deborah Storey Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml (accessed June 17 2015) Alabama Civil War Battles httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26 2015) Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama
32 Martha B Gabel General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical Review
(July 1971) 16 33
Gabel 14 Victoria Cumbow Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11 2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed June 17 2015)
34 Pat Jones The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review (April-July 1975) 26-27
13
Figure 7 Union Occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1864
Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
are giving information of all the
arms and soldiers who have been
concealedrdquo35
Some reprisal from pro-
Confederate bushwhackers did
occur these attacks escalated as
the occupation went on Mitchel
had difficulty maintaining order
throughout his widely spread
troops In a wire sent to
Washington Mitchel stated
ldquoArmed citizens fire into the
trains cut the telegraph wires
attack the guards of bridges cut
off and destroy my couriers
while guerrilla bands of cavalry
attack whenever there is the
slightest chance of successrdquo36
Mitchel attempted to restore order as is revealed in an April 28
1862 diary entry by Mary Jane Chadick that states ldquoGeneral Mitchel has been in a rage all the
week on account of the cutting of the telegraph wires the tearing up of the railroad track firing
into trains and holds the citizens responsible for the same having had 12 of the most prominent
arrestedrdquo General Mitchel and other Union officers took pains to ensure that the homes and
buildings that they occupied among them the Northern Bank building remained intact Only one
building the First Methodist Church on Greene Street was lost during the occupation when it
was accidentally burned down in January 1864 37
From April 11 1862 until the Civil Warrsquos end on April 9 1865 Federal troops occupied
the City of Huntsville By the warrsquos end a semblance of peace was restored to the City as the
Union occupation was lifted
35
Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
36 Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama 37
Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
8
It was at home that George Steele also lived to benefit others There he lavished
his kindness and provided care over all dependent on him A kind husband an
indulgent yet not foolish father and a good master was the center of his family ndash
spared no pains apart and no expense in whatever ministered to their welfare
comfort or happiness Knowing the advantages of education by the lack of them
in his youth all his children were trained in the path of knowledge at the best
institutions He labored upwards to improve to elevate to educate the hand the
heart the mind the manners
His life was a successful one ndash a boisterous backward unpromising Spring ndash a
g___ grieving warm Summer an abundant yet short Autumn his demise sunk
into his ___ and his untimely ___ cut him off ___ was Winter with him And that
was mortal of him ___ gone from us ndash ldquolarge was his bounty and his soul
sincererdquo Let us imitate him in all the great good in his character which we are
still ___ and with a knowledge that we too are mortal and erring creatures21
Steele has long been attributed to the design of the Branch Bank building but is not the
only person to leave his mark on the structure According to the Lacy account book the building
was built with the help of several local subcontractors carpenters and masons including James
M Venable who ldquocovered the bank with sundry coppersrdquo Hugh N Moore who completed the
carpentry work William Hale who completed the painting Edward T and R Parker who
ldquoprovided the iron railings and installed them Thomas and William Brandon who completed the
stone and brick work Justin Dyer who was a subcontractor for the Brandon brothers and
Frederick Elgin who completed the stucco work for the slave quarters22
21 Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedlldb=WebSearch-4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07 2015)
22
Brantley 377-378
9
The Panic of 1837
Figure 5 Political Cartoon by HR Robinson depicting the Panic of 1837 Print courtesy of the Library of
Congressrsquo Prints amp Photographs Catalog
Shortly after construction on the Branch Bank began the country experienced a large
scale panic known widely as the Panic of 1837 The Panic of 1837 has long been attributed to a
real estate bubble and inconsistent American banking policies The crisis began in 1836 when
the Bank of the United States lost its charter this in turn allowed the nationrsquos banks to issue
private banknotes unsupported by gold or silver Shortly thereafter President Andrew Jackson
passed the Specie Circular of 1836 This executive order was a reaction to excessive land
speculation and the use of unsupported paper money printed by sundry banks to purchase land
The order only allowed the purchase of government land using gold or silver By 1837 the
banks refused to redeem banknotes effectively shutting down commerce The initial Panic of
1837 and the subsequent depression that followed lasted for six-years23
The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville weathered this national
storm for a time In an annual report for the bank published in the November 18 1837 issue of
ldquoThe Democratrdquo Bank President Bartley M Lowe wrote
23
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012 httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
10
The statement of the ldquogeneral liabilities of the Bank and means to meet themrdquo
made without reference to the periods when those liabilities become due shows a
surplus of $16434442 Taking into consideration the late derangements in the
fiscal concerns of the country from the effects of which no banking institution
has been exempt a more favorable state of things could scarcely have been
anticipated and were it proper to close this communication here the friends of
this Branch might congratulate themselves on its prosperous condition24
All of the branches of the State Bank of Alabama including the branch at Huntsville
eventually succumbed to the pressures of the Panic of 183725
By February 4 1843 an Act
passed by the General Assembly allowed for the liquidation of the Branch of the Bank of the
State of Alabama at Huntsville26
After the Branch Bank at Huntsvillersquos charter expired January
1 1844 a commission was appointed in 1846 by order of the state legislature to ldquoonly continue
in operation for the security and collection of debts due to said Branch Bank and for the
settlement and liquidation of its affairsrdquo27
The committee completed its task by 1853 and the
bank building and land was sold in October of 185428
24
BM Lowe Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat (October 31 1837 Huntsville) 1
25 Linda Bayer George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief History 1
26
CC Clay comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama (Alabama Marmaduke J Slade 1843) 43
27
Bayer 1
28 The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z (Huntsville October 14
1854) 597Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z( Huntsville October 25
1854) 596 John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed Book BB
(Huntsville July 10 1857) 218-219 The deed dated July 10 1857 between John Whiting and Stephen Ewing is a later published document of an agreement made during the original purchase of the Bank property in 1837 A deed dated March 15 1837 between Stephen Ewing and the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville states that Ewing conveyed a parcel of land located on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row to the Branch Bank for the sum of $800000 The later deed dated July 101857 states ldquoMr Ewing having determined to take the House and lot owned by the Bank and receive the $1750 in exchange for the whole of his property on the bluff according to the proposition made to him at the last meeting_ Ordered that the President make to Mr Ewing a Deed for the lot sold to him and receive from him a Deed for the property sold by him to the bankrdquo The deed then goes on to say ldquoAnd whereas the said Stephen S Ewing afterwards on the 15
th day of March 1837 delivered
to the said Branch Bank a Deed of Conveyance of that date from him and his wife duly executed and acknowledged for the said property on the bluff And whereas no deed was ever made by the President of said Branch Bank or by any other person in pursuance of said resolution to the said Branch Bankrdquo It appears from these two records that Ewing made an agreement with the State Bank to exchange the property that he owned on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row for a plot of land and building that the Bank owned plus $175000 While Ewing held up his side of the agreement by creating a deed of sale in 1837 the Bank did not complete this task until 1857 after the Bank and land sold to the Nothern Bank of Alabama
11
The Northern Bank of Alabama and the Civil War (1852-1865)
Figure 6 Union occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1862 Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison
County Public Library
The Northern Bank of Alabama finalized the purchase of the bank house and lot in
October 1854 The bank remained in the possession of the Northern Bank of Alabama for fifteen
years Like the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville the Northern Bank of
Alabama was destined to face turmoil29
On April 12th
1861 the American Civil War tore
through the country marking the beginning of a tumultuous time in Huntsville
By and large Huntsville was a divided town prior to and during the Civil War
Huntsville composed of both landed gentry and yeoman farmers supported both Confederate
and Union sympathizers Despite the rift the fate of Huntsville like many towns and cities in
the south was irrevocably impacted by the Civil War30
Union troops led by General Ormsby M Mitchel seized control of Huntsville on the
morning of April 11 1862 Troops composed of the Indiana 5th
Independent Light Artillery 37th
29
Ibid 30
Taylor M Polites The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013 httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
12
Infantry the Illinois 19th
and 24th
Infantry and the Ohio 4th
Cavalry and 18th
Infantry led a
surprise attack on the city and Huntsville yielded to the encroaching Union Army with little
opposition31
One onlooker reported ldquothe clattering noise of the cavalry aroused them from their
slumber in the dawn of the morning and they flocked to door and window exclaiming with
blanched cheek and faltering tongue lsquoThey come They come The Yankees comersquordquo32
The interest of the Union army in Huntsville centered primarily on the capture of the
Huntsville Depot which served the Memphis and Charleston Railroads This particular junction
served as a major supply artery for the Confederate army the capture of which would help to
wound the rebel forces A Nashville newspaper Daily Union further described the situation
This Memphis and Charleston road is the only connection left the rebels between
Louisiana Mississippi and all Alabama west of Pensacola and the Southern
seaboard States Troops can only be sent east from New Orleans Natchez
Vicksburg Jackson Memphis Baton Rouge or Mobile or those points from
Virginia North or South Carolina or Georgia over the Memphis and Charleston
road the only railroad line now connecting the east and west of the rebellion Let
that road be once broken and the Southern Confederacy is cut into as effectually
as if a Chinese wall were built between the Gulf and the seaboard States33
Several buildings and homes in Huntsville were occupied by the Union army and were
used primarily as headquarters and encampments During the Civil War the Northern Bank of
Alabama was used as the commissary for Union troops (See figure 12) Local lore holds that
prior to the Federal occupation of Huntsville the bankrsquos cashier Theophilus Lacy placed the
bankrsquos funds in a burlap bag which he then hid inside one of the fireplace flues behind the
tellersrsquo cage Primary source documentation to support this tale has not been located34
Huntsville because of the Union occupation during the war escaped much of the terrible
destruction inflicted on other southern towns In general the occupation of Huntsville saw little
resistance Several of the pro-Confederate inhabitants did feel the weight of the occupation
however as Mary Jane Chadick a local Huntsville resident outlines in a diary entry dated April
12 1862 ldquoTruly our town is full of the enemy There is a sentinel at every corner Everybody
keeps the front door locked and I make it a point to answer the bell myself not permitting
children or servants to open it They have been searching the houses today for armshellip Servants
31
Deborah Storey Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml (accessed June 17 2015) Alabama Civil War Battles httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26 2015) Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama
32 Martha B Gabel General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical Review
(July 1971) 16 33
Gabel 14 Victoria Cumbow Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11 2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed June 17 2015)
34 Pat Jones The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review (April-July 1975) 26-27
13
Figure 7 Union Occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1864
Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
are giving information of all the
arms and soldiers who have been
concealedrdquo35
Some reprisal from pro-
Confederate bushwhackers did
occur these attacks escalated as
the occupation went on Mitchel
had difficulty maintaining order
throughout his widely spread
troops In a wire sent to
Washington Mitchel stated
ldquoArmed citizens fire into the
trains cut the telegraph wires
attack the guards of bridges cut
off and destroy my couriers
while guerrilla bands of cavalry
attack whenever there is the
slightest chance of successrdquo36
Mitchel attempted to restore order as is revealed in an April 28
1862 diary entry by Mary Jane Chadick that states ldquoGeneral Mitchel has been in a rage all the
week on account of the cutting of the telegraph wires the tearing up of the railroad track firing
into trains and holds the citizens responsible for the same having had 12 of the most prominent
arrestedrdquo General Mitchel and other Union officers took pains to ensure that the homes and
buildings that they occupied among them the Northern Bank building remained intact Only one
building the First Methodist Church on Greene Street was lost during the occupation when it
was accidentally burned down in January 1864 37
From April 11 1862 until the Civil Warrsquos end on April 9 1865 Federal troops occupied
the City of Huntsville By the warrsquos end a semblance of peace was restored to the City as the
Union occupation was lifted
35
Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
36 Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama 37
Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
9
The Panic of 1837
Figure 5 Political Cartoon by HR Robinson depicting the Panic of 1837 Print courtesy of the Library of
Congressrsquo Prints amp Photographs Catalog
Shortly after construction on the Branch Bank began the country experienced a large
scale panic known widely as the Panic of 1837 The Panic of 1837 has long been attributed to a
real estate bubble and inconsistent American banking policies The crisis began in 1836 when
the Bank of the United States lost its charter this in turn allowed the nationrsquos banks to issue
private banknotes unsupported by gold or silver Shortly thereafter President Andrew Jackson
passed the Specie Circular of 1836 This executive order was a reaction to excessive land
speculation and the use of unsupported paper money printed by sundry banks to purchase land
The order only allowed the purchase of government land using gold or silver By 1837 the
banks refused to redeem banknotes effectively shutting down commerce The initial Panic of
1837 and the subsequent depression that followed lasted for six-years23
The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville weathered this national
storm for a time In an annual report for the bank published in the November 18 1837 issue of
ldquoThe Democratrdquo Bank President Bartley M Lowe wrote
23
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012 httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
10
The statement of the ldquogeneral liabilities of the Bank and means to meet themrdquo
made without reference to the periods when those liabilities become due shows a
surplus of $16434442 Taking into consideration the late derangements in the
fiscal concerns of the country from the effects of which no banking institution
has been exempt a more favorable state of things could scarcely have been
anticipated and were it proper to close this communication here the friends of
this Branch might congratulate themselves on its prosperous condition24
All of the branches of the State Bank of Alabama including the branch at Huntsville
eventually succumbed to the pressures of the Panic of 183725
By February 4 1843 an Act
passed by the General Assembly allowed for the liquidation of the Branch of the Bank of the
State of Alabama at Huntsville26
After the Branch Bank at Huntsvillersquos charter expired January
1 1844 a commission was appointed in 1846 by order of the state legislature to ldquoonly continue
in operation for the security and collection of debts due to said Branch Bank and for the
settlement and liquidation of its affairsrdquo27
The committee completed its task by 1853 and the
bank building and land was sold in October of 185428
24
BM Lowe Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat (October 31 1837 Huntsville) 1
25 Linda Bayer George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief History 1
26
CC Clay comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama (Alabama Marmaduke J Slade 1843) 43
27
Bayer 1
28 The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z (Huntsville October 14
1854) 597Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z( Huntsville October 25
1854) 596 John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed Book BB
(Huntsville July 10 1857) 218-219 The deed dated July 10 1857 between John Whiting and Stephen Ewing is a later published document of an agreement made during the original purchase of the Bank property in 1837 A deed dated March 15 1837 between Stephen Ewing and the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville states that Ewing conveyed a parcel of land located on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row to the Branch Bank for the sum of $800000 The later deed dated July 101857 states ldquoMr Ewing having determined to take the House and lot owned by the Bank and receive the $1750 in exchange for the whole of his property on the bluff according to the proposition made to him at the last meeting_ Ordered that the President make to Mr Ewing a Deed for the lot sold to him and receive from him a Deed for the property sold by him to the bankrdquo The deed then goes on to say ldquoAnd whereas the said Stephen S Ewing afterwards on the 15
th day of March 1837 delivered
to the said Branch Bank a Deed of Conveyance of that date from him and his wife duly executed and acknowledged for the said property on the bluff And whereas no deed was ever made by the President of said Branch Bank or by any other person in pursuance of said resolution to the said Branch Bankrdquo It appears from these two records that Ewing made an agreement with the State Bank to exchange the property that he owned on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row for a plot of land and building that the Bank owned plus $175000 While Ewing held up his side of the agreement by creating a deed of sale in 1837 the Bank did not complete this task until 1857 after the Bank and land sold to the Nothern Bank of Alabama
11
The Northern Bank of Alabama and the Civil War (1852-1865)
Figure 6 Union occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1862 Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison
County Public Library
The Northern Bank of Alabama finalized the purchase of the bank house and lot in
October 1854 The bank remained in the possession of the Northern Bank of Alabama for fifteen
years Like the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville the Northern Bank of
Alabama was destined to face turmoil29
On April 12th
1861 the American Civil War tore
through the country marking the beginning of a tumultuous time in Huntsville
By and large Huntsville was a divided town prior to and during the Civil War
Huntsville composed of both landed gentry and yeoman farmers supported both Confederate
and Union sympathizers Despite the rift the fate of Huntsville like many towns and cities in
the south was irrevocably impacted by the Civil War30
Union troops led by General Ormsby M Mitchel seized control of Huntsville on the
morning of April 11 1862 Troops composed of the Indiana 5th
Independent Light Artillery 37th
29
Ibid 30
Taylor M Polites The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013 httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
12
Infantry the Illinois 19th
and 24th
Infantry and the Ohio 4th
Cavalry and 18th
Infantry led a
surprise attack on the city and Huntsville yielded to the encroaching Union Army with little
opposition31
One onlooker reported ldquothe clattering noise of the cavalry aroused them from their
slumber in the dawn of the morning and they flocked to door and window exclaiming with
blanched cheek and faltering tongue lsquoThey come They come The Yankees comersquordquo32
The interest of the Union army in Huntsville centered primarily on the capture of the
Huntsville Depot which served the Memphis and Charleston Railroads This particular junction
served as a major supply artery for the Confederate army the capture of which would help to
wound the rebel forces A Nashville newspaper Daily Union further described the situation
This Memphis and Charleston road is the only connection left the rebels between
Louisiana Mississippi and all Alabama west of Pensacola and the Southern
seaboard States Troops can only be sent east from New Orleans Natchez
Vicksburg Jackson Memphis Baton Rouge or Mobile or those points from
Virginia North or South Carolina or Georgia over the Memphis and Charleston
road the only railroad line now connecting the east and west of the rebellion Let
that road be once broken and the Southern Confederacy is cut into as effectually
as if a Chinese wall were built between the Gulf and the seaboard States33
Several buildings and homes in Huntsville were occupied by the Union army and were
used primarily as headquarters and encampments During the Civil War the Northern Bank of
Alabama was used as the commissary for Union troops (See figure 12) Local lore holds that
prior to the Federal occupation of Huntsville the bankrsquos cashier Theophilus Lacy placed the
bankrsquos funds in a burlap bag which he then hid inside one of the fireplace flues behind the
tellersrsquo cage Primary source documentation to support this tale has not been located34
Huntsville because of the Union occupation during the war escaped much of the terrible
destruction inflicted on other southern towns In general the occupation of Huntsville saw little
resistance Several of the pro-Confederate inhabitants did feel the weight of the occupation
however as Mary Jane Chadick a local Huntsville resident outlines in a diary entry dated April
12 1862 ldquoTruly our town is full of the enemy There is a sentinel at every corner Everybody
keeps the front door locked and I make it a point to answer the bell myself not permitting
children or servants to open it They have been searching the houses today for armshellip Servants
31
Deborah Storey Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml (accessed June 17 2015) Alabama Civil War Battles httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26 2015) Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama
32 Martha B Gabel General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical Review
(July 1971) 16 33
Gabel 14 Victoria Cumbow Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11 2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed June 17 2015)
34 Pat Jones The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review (April-July 1975) 26-27
13
Figure 7 Union Occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1864
Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
are giving information of all the
arms and soldiers who have been
concealedrdquo35
Some reprisal from pro-
Confederate bushwhackers did
occur these attacks escalated as
the occupation went on Mitchel
had difficulty maintaining order
throughout his widely spread
troops In a wire sent to
Washington Mitchel stated
ldquoArmed citizens fire into the
trains cut the telegraph wires
attack the guards of bridges cut
off and destroy my couriers
while guerrilla bands of cavalry
attack whenever there is the
slightest chance of successrdquo36
Mitchel attempted to restore order as is revealed in an April 28
1862 diary entry by Mary Jane Chadick that states ldquoGeneral Mitchel has been in a rage all the
week on account of the cutting of the telegraph wires the tearing up of the railroad track firing
into trains and holds the citizens responsible for the same having had 12 of the most prominent
arrestedrdquo General Mitchel and other Union officers took pains to ensure that the homes and
buildings that they occupied among them the Northern Bank building remained intact Only one
building the First Methodist Church on Greene Street was lost during the occupation when it
was accidentally burned down in January 1864 37
From April 11 1862 until the Civil Warrsquos end on April 9 1865 Federal troops occupied
the City of Huntsville By the warrsquos end a semblance of peace was restored to the City as the
Union occupation was lifted
35
Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
36 Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama 37
Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
10
The statement of the ldquogeneral liabilities of the Bank and means to meet themrdquo
made without reference to the periods when those liabilities become due shows a
surplus of $16434442 Taking into consideration the late derangements in the
fiscal concerns of the country from the effects of which no banking institution
has been exempt a more favorable state of things could scarcely have been
anticipated and were it proper to close this communication here the friends of
this Branch might congratulate themselves on its prosperous condition24
All of the branches of the State Bank of Alabama including the branch at Huntsville
eventually succumbed to the pressures of the Panic of 183725
By February 4 1843 an Act
passed by the General Assembly allowed for the liquidation of the Branch of the Bank of the
State of Alabama at Huntsville26
After the Branch Bank at Huntsvillersquos charter expired January
1 1844 a commission was appointed in 1846 by order of the state legislature to ldquoonly continue
in operation for the security and collection of debts due to said Branch Bank and for the
settlement and liquidation of its affairsrdquo27
The committee completed its task by 1853 and the
bank building and land was sold in October of 185428
24
BM Lowe Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat (October 31 1837 Huntsville) 1
25 Linda Bayer George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief History 1
26
CC Clay comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama (Alabama Marmaduke J Slade 1843) 43
27
Bayer 1
28 The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z (Huntsville October 14
1854) 597Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z( Huntsville October 25
1854) 596 John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed Book BB
(Huntsville July 10 1857) 218-219 The deed dated July 10 1857 between John Whiting and Stephen Ewing is a later published document of an agreement made during the original purchase of the Bank property in 1837 A deed dated March 15 1837 between Stephen Ewing and the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville states that Ewing conveyed a parcel of land located on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row to the Branch Bank for the sum of $800000 The later deed dated July 101857 states ldquoMr Ewing having determined to take the House and lot owned by the Bank and receive the $1750 in exchange for the whole of his property on the bluff according to the proposition made to him at the last meeting_ Ordered that the President make to Mr Ewing a Deed for the lot sold to him and receive from him a Deed for the property sold by him to the bankrdquo The deed then goes on to say ldquoAnd whereas the said Stephen S Ewing afterwards on the 15
th day of March 1837 delivered
to the said Branch Bank a Deed of Conveyance of that date from him and his wife duly executed and acknowledged for the said property on the bluff And whereas no deed was ever made by the President of said Branch Bank or by any other person in pursuance of said resolution to the said Branch Bankrdquo It appears from these two records that Ewing made an agreement with the State Bank to exchange the property that he owned on the corner of Bank Row and Fountain Row for a plot of land and building that the Bank owned plus $175000 While Ewing held up his side of the agreement by creating a deed of sale in 1837 the Bank did not complete this task until 1857 after the Bank and land sold to the Nothern Bank of Alabama
11
The Northern Bank of Alabama and the Civil War (1852-1865)
Figure 6 Union occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1862 Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison
County Public Library
The Northern Bank of Alabama finalized the purchase of the bank house and lot in
October 1854 The bank remained in the possession of the Northern Bank of Alabama for fifteen
years Like the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville the Northern Bank of
Alabama was destined to face turmoil29
On April 12th
1861 the American Civil War tore
through the country marking the beginning of a tumultuous time in Huntsville
By and large Huntsville was a divided town prior to and during the Civil War
Huntsville composed of both landed gentry and yeoman farmers supported both Confederate
and Union sympathizers Despite the rift the fate of Huntsville like many towns and cities in
the south was irrevocably impacted by the Civil War30
Union troops led by General Ormsby M Mitchel seized control of Huntsville on the
morning of April 11 1862 Troops composed of the Indiana 5th
Independent Light Artillery 37th
29
Ibid 30
Taylor M Polites The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013 httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
12
Infantry the Illinois 19th
and 24th
Infantry and the Ohio 4th
Cavalry and 18th
Infantry led a
surprise attack on the city and Huntsville yielded to the encroaching Union Army with little
opposition31
One onlooker reported ldquothe clattering noise of the cavalry aroused them from their
slumber in the dawn of the morning and they flocked to door and window exclaiming with
blanched cheek and faltering tongue lsquoThey come They come The Yankees comersquordquo32
The interest of the Union army in Huntsville centered primarily on the capture of the
Huntsville Depot which served the Memphis and Charleston Railroads This particular junction
served as a major supply artery for the Confederate army the capture of which would help to
wound the rebel forces A Nashville newspaper Daily Union further described the situation
This Memphis and Charleston road is the only connection left the rebels between
Louisiana Mississippi and all Alabama west of Pensacola and the Southern
seaboard States Troops can only be sent east from New Orleans Natchez
Vicksburg Jackson Memphis Baton Rouge or Mobile or those points from
Virginia North or South Carolina or Georgia over the Memphis and Charleston
road the only railroad line now connecting the east and west of the rebellion Let
that road be once broken and the Southern Confederacy is cut into as effectually
as if a Chinese wall were built between the Gulf and the seaboard States33
Several buildings and homes in Huntsville were occupied by the Union army and were
used primarily as headquarters and encampments During the Civil War the Northern Bank of
Alabama was used as the commissary for Union troops (See figure 12) Local lore holds that
prior to the Federal occupation of Huntsville the bankrsquos cashier Theophilus Lacy placed the
bankrsquos funds in a burlap bag which he then hid inside one of the fireplace flues behind the
tellersrsquo cage Primary source documentation to support this tale has not been located34
Huntsville because of the Union occupation during the war escaped much of the terrible
destruction inflicted on other southern towns In general the occupation of Huntsville saw little
resistance Several of the pro-Confederate inhabitants did feel the weight of the occupation
however as Mary Jane Chadick a local Huntsville resident outlines in a diary entry dated April
12 1862 ldquoTruly our town is full of the enemy There is a sentinel at every corner Everybody
keeps the front door locked and I make it a point to answer the bell myself not permitting
children or servants to open it They have been searching the houses today for armshellip Servants
31
Deborah Storey Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml (accessed June 17 2015) Alabama Civil War Battles httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26 2015) Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama
32 Martha B Gabel General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical Review
(July 1971) 16 33
Gabel 14 Victoria Cumbow Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11 2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed June 17 2015)
34 Pat Jones The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review (April-July 1975) 26-27
13
Figure 7 Union Occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1864
Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
are giving information of all the
arms and soldiers who have been
concealedrdquo35
Some reprisal from pro-
Confederate bushwhackers did
occur these attacks escalated as
the occupation went on Mitchel
had difficulty maintaining order
throughout his widely spread
troops In a wire sent to
Washington Mitchel stated
ldquoArmed citizens fire into the
trains cut the telegraph wires
attack the guards of bridges cut
off and destroy my couriers
while guerrilla bands of cavalry
attack whenever there is the
slightest chance of successrdquo36
Mitchel attempted to restore order as is revealed in an April 28
1862 diary entry by Mary Jane Chadick that states ldquoGeneral Mitchel has been in a rage all the
week on account of the cutting of the telegraph wires the tearing up of the railroad track firing
into trains and holds the citizens responsible for the same having had 12 of the most prominent
arrestedrdquo General Mitchel and other Union officers took pains to ensure that the homes and
buildings that they occupied among them the Northern Bank building remained intact Only one
building the First Methodist Church on Greene Street was lost during the occupation when it
was accidentally burned down in January 1864 37
From April 11 1862 until the Civil Warrsquos end on April 9 1865 Federal troops occupied
the City of Huntsville By the warrsquos end a semblance of peace was restored to the City as the
Union occupation was lifted
35
Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
36 Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama 37
Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
11
The Northern Bank of Alabama and the Civil War (1852-1865)
Figure 6 Union occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1862 Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison
County Public Library
The Northern Bank of Alabama finalized the purchase of the bank house and lot in
October 1854 The bank remained in the possession of the Northern Bank of Alabama for fifteen
years Like the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at Huntsville the Northern Bank of
Alabama was destined to face turmoil29
On April 12th
1861 the American Civil War tore
through the country marking the beginning of a tumultuous time in Huntsville
By and large Huntsville was a divided town prior to and during the Civil War
Huntsville composed of both landed gentry and yeoman farmers supported both Confederate
and Union sympathizers Despite the rift the fate of Huntsville like many towns and cities in
the south was irrevocably impacted by the Civil War30
Union troops led by General Ormsby M Mitchel seized control of Huntsville on the
morning of April 11 1862 Troops composed of the Indiana 5th
Independent Light Artillery 37th
29
Ibid 30
Taylor M Polites The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013 httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
12
Infantry the Illinois 19th
and 24th
Infantry and the Ohio 4th
Cavalry and 18th
Infantry led a
surprise attack on the city and Huntsville yielded to the encroaching Union Army with little
opposition31
One onlooker reported ldquothe clattering noise of the cavalry aroused them from their
slumber in the dawn of the morning and they flocked to door and window exclaiming with
blanched cheek and faltering tongue lsquoThey come They come The Yankees comersquordquo32
The interest of the Union army in Huntsville centered primarily on the capture of the
Huntsville Depot which served the Memphis and Charleston Railroads This particular junction
served as a major supply artery for the Confederate army the capture of which would help to
wound the rebel forces A Nashville newspaper Daily Union further described the situation
This Memphis and Charleston road is the only connection left the rebels between
Louisiana Mississippi and all Alabama west of Pensacola and the Southern
seaboard States Troops can only be sent east from New Orleans Natchez
Vicksburg Jackson Memphis Baton Rouge or Mobile or those points from
Virginia North or South Carolina or Georgia over the Memphis and Charleston
road the only railroad line now connecting the east and west of the rebellion Let
that road be once broken and the Southern Confederacy is cut into as effectually
as if a Chinese wall were built between the Gulf and the seaboard States33
Several buildings and homes in Huntsville were occupied by the Union army and were
used primarily as headquarters and encampments During the Civil War the Northern Bank of
Alabama was used as the commissary for Union troops (See figure 12) Local lore holds that
prior to the Federal occupation of Huntsville the bankrsquos cashier Theophilus Lacy placed the
bankrsquos funds in a burlap bag which he then hid inside one of the fireplace flues behind the
tellersrsquo cage Primary source documentation to support this tale has not been located34
Huntsville because of the Union occupation during the war escaped much of the terrible
destruction inflicted on other southern towns In general the occupation of Huntsville saw little
resistance Several of the pro-Confederate inhabitants did feel the weight of the occupation
however as Mary Jane Chadick a local Huntsville resident outlines in a diary entry dated April
12 1862 ldquoTruly our town is full of the enemy There is a sentinel at every corner Everybody
keeps the front door locked and I make it a point to answer the bell myself not permitting
children or servants to open it They have been searching the houses today for armshellip Servants
31
Deborah Storey Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml (accessed June 17 2015) Alabama Civil War Battles httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26 2015) Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama
32 Martha B Gabel General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical Review
(July 1971) 16 33
Gabel 14 Victoria Cumbow Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11 2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed June 17 2015)
34 Pat Jones The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review (April-July 1975) 26-27
13
Figure 7 Union Occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1864
Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
are giving information of all the
arms and soldiers who have been
concealedrdquo35
Some reprisal from pro-
Confederate bushwhackers did
occur these attacks escalated as
the occupation went on Mitchel
had difficulty maintaining order
throughout his widely spread
troops In a wire sent to
Washington Mitchel stated
ldquoArmed citizens fire into the
trains cut the telegraph wires
attack the guards of bridges cut
off and destroy my couriers
while guerrilla bands of cavalry
attack whenever there is the
slightest chance of successrdquo36
Mitchel attempted to restore order as is revealed in an April 28
1862 diary entry by Mary Jane Chadick that states ldquoGeneral Mitchel has been in a rage all the
week on account of the cutting of the telegraph wires the tearing up of the railroad track firing
into trains and holds the citizens responsible for the same having had 12 of the most prominent
arrestedrdquo General Mitchel and other Union officers took pains to ensure that the homes and
buildings that they occupied among them the Northern Bank building remained intact Only one
building the First Methodist Church on Greene Street was lost during the occupation when it
was accidentally burned down in January 1864 37
From April 11 1862 until the Civil Warrsquos end on April 9 1865 Federal troops occupied
the City of Huntsville By the warrsquos end a semblance of peace was restored to the City as the
Union occupation was lifted
35
Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
36 Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama 37
Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
12
Infantry the Illinois 19th
and 24th
Infantry and the Ohio 4th
Cavalry and 18th
Infantry led a
surprise attack on the city and Huntsville yielded to the encroaching Union Army with little
opposition31
One onlooker reported ldquothe clattering noise of the cavalry aroused them from their
slumber in the dawn of the morning and they flocked to door and window exclaiming with
blanched cheek and faltering tongue lsquoThey come They come The Yankees comersquordquo32
The interest of the Union army in Huntsville centered primarily on the capture of the
Huntsville Depot which served the Memphis and Charleston Railroads This particular junction
served as a major supply artery for the Confederate army the capture of which would help to
wound the rebel forces A Nashville newspaper Daily Union further described the situation
This Memphis and Charleston road is the only connection left the rebels between
Louisiana Mississippi and all Alabama west of Pensacola and the Southern
seaboard States Troops can only be sent east from New Orleans Natchez
Vicksburg Jackson Memphis Baton Rouge or Mobile or those points from
Virginia North or South Carolina or Georgia over the Memphis and Charleston
road the only railroad line now connecting the east and west of the rebellion Let
that road be once broken and the Southern Confederacy is cut into as effectually
as if a Chinese wall were built between the Gulf and the seaboard States33
Several buildings and homes in Huntsville were occupied by the Union army and were
used primarily as headquarters and encampments During the Civil War the Northern Bank of
Alabama was used as the commissary for Union troops (See figure 12) Local lore holds that
prior to the Federal occupation of Huntsville the bankrsquos cashier Theophilus Lacy placed the
bankrsquos funds in a burlap bag which he then hid inside one of the fireplace flues behind the
tellersrsquo cage Primary source documentation to support this tale has not been located34
Huntsville because of the Union occupation during the war escaped much of the terrible
destruction inflicted on other southern towns In general the occupation of Huntsville saw little
resistance Several of the pro-Confederate inhabitants did feel the weight of the occupation
however as Mary Jane Chadick a local Huntsville resident outlines in a diary entry dated April
12 1862 ldquoTruly our town is full of the enemy There is a sentinel at every corner Everybody
keeps the front door locked and I make it a point to answer the bell myself not permitting
children or servants to open it They have been searching the houses today for armshellip Servants
31
Deborah Storey Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml (accessed June 17 2015) Alabama Civil War Battles httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26 2015) Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-alabama
32 Martha B Gabel General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical Review
(July 1971) 16 33
Gabel 14 Victoria Cumbow Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11 2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed June 17 2015)
34 Pat Jones The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review (April-July 1975) 26-27
13
Figure 7 Union Occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1864
Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
are giving information of all the
arms and soldiers who have been
concealedrdquo35
Some reprisal from pro-
Confederate bushwhackers did
occur these attacks escalated as
the occupation went on Mitchel
had difficulty maintaining order
throughout his widely spread
troops In a wire sent to
Washington Mitchel stated
ldquoArmed citizens fire into the
trains cut the telegraph wires
attack the guards of bridges cut
off and destroy my couriers
while guerrilla bands of cavalry
attack whenever there is the
slightest chance of successrdquo36
Mitchel attempted to restore order as is revealed in an April 28
1862 diary entry by Mary Jane Chadick that states ldquoGeneral Mitchel has been in a rage all the
week on account of the cutting of the telegraph wires the tearing up of the railroad track firing
into trains and holds the citizens responsible for the same having had 12 of the most prominent
arrestedrdquo General Mitchel and other Union officers took pains to ensure that the homes and
buildings that they occupied among them the Northern Bank building remained intact Only one
building the First Methodist Church on Greene Street was lost during the occupation when it
was accidentally burned down in January 1864 37
From April 11 1862 until the Civil Warrsquos end on April 9 1865 Federal troops occupied
the City of Huntsville By the warrsquos end a semblance of peace was restored to the City as the
Union occupation was lifted
35
Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
36 Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama 37
Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
13
Figure 7 Union Occupation of the Northern Bank of Alabama c 1864
Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
are giving information of all the
arms and soldiers who have been
concealedrdquo35
Some reprisal from pro-
Confederate bushwhackers did
occur these attacks escalated as
the occupation went on Mitchel
had difficulty maintaining order
throughout his widely spread
troops In a wire sent to
Washington Mitchel stated
ldquoArmed citizens fire into the
trains cut the telegraph wires
attack the guards of bridges cut
off and destroy my couriers
while guerrilla bands of cavalry
attack whenever there is the
slightest chance of successrdquo36
Mitchel attempted to restore order as is revealed in an April 28
1862 diary entry by Mary Jane Chadick that states ldquoGeneral Mitchel has been in a rage all the
week on account of the cutting of the telegraph wires the tearing up of the railroad track firing
into trains and holds the citizens responsible for the same having had 12 of the most prominent
arrestedrdquo General Mitchel and other Union officers took pains to ensure that the homes and
buildings that they occupied among them the Northern Bank building remained intact Only one
building the First Methodist Church on Greene Street was lost during the occupation when it
was accidentally burned down in January 1864 37
From April 11 1862 until the Civil Warrsquos end on April 9 1865 Federal troops occupied
the City of Huntsville By the warrsquos end a semblance of peace was restored to the City as the
Union occupation was lifted
35
Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
36 Polites httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama 37
Storey httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
14
The National Bank of Huntsville (1866-1889)
Figure 8 Photograph of the National Bank Building at Huntsville c 1870
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Pictured in front of
the building is bank cashier Theophilus Lacy Lacy held the position of cashier
of the bank with all of the institutions that occupied it until his death in 187438
During the first year after the war the Northern Bank of Alabama posted the sale of the
bank building for $3500000 ldquoreserving to themselves [existing stockholders] the right or
privilege of such occupancy as they require to wind up the affairs of the Northern Bank of
Alabama the said amount of $35000 to be paid in greenbacksrdquo Hard times hit Huntsville for a
brief period during Reconstruction leading to the sale of the Northern Bank of Alabama A
newly chartered bank the National Bank of Huntsville offered to purchase the property for
$30000 The sum was to be paid in three installments the first payment of $10000 to be paid
up-front the second to be paid at the end of the year and the third to be paid two years after the
38
Jones 28 In meeting minutes from the National Bank of Huntsville dated February 4 1874 members noted ldquoSince the last meeting of the board Theophilus Lacy the beloved and worthy cashier of the National Bank of Huntsville died at his residence within these walls on Tuesday night February 10 1874 at the age of 70 years one month 10 days It were vain to attempt to impress in mere words the sincere sorrow and heartfelt grief of each member of this board occasioned by the death of a brother who was a gentle as a little child yet as firm as the solid mountains who was so pure in heart so right-minded in all things so patient and of such lofty rectitudehellip It is becoming to say that his accounts were kept in order and as in this world the balance was always on the right side His survivors have the full assurance that when he is weighed in the scales of eternal justice he will receive the just and righteous manrsquos rewardhelliprdquo
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
15
execution of the deed Stockholders of the
Northern Bank of Alabama turned down the
offer and the National Bank of Huntsville
began renting the property for $100 per month
instead39
The National Bank of Huntsville was
chartered five months after the end of the Civil
War on September 15 1865 According to
bank financial statements the National Bank of
Huntsville began renting the bank building on
October 1 1865 In a financial statement dated
March of 1866 $300 was paid for renting of
ldquobanking roomsrdquo from October 1- December
31 1865 and $500 was paid for renting the
building from January 1 to March 31 186640
The bank officially opened for business on
October 5 186541
A board meeting held January 4 1867
the National Bank board resolved
That the president of this bank is hereby authorized and required to consummate
with the Northern Bank of Alabama the purchase of its banking house and lot of
land upon which it is situated upon the terms agreed upon between the
contracting parties on January 1 1867 namely as soon as the Northern Bank of
Alabama executes and delivers to this bank a fee simple deed with general
warranty to the property so purchased42
The same day that this resolution was passed the Northern Bank of Alabama at Huntsville
sold the bank building and property to the National Bank of Huntsville for the sum of
$30000
39
Jones 27 Sarah Etheline Bounds Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-1869 The Huntsville Historical Review (October 1973) 3-23
40
Jones 27
41 Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History (Huntsville The First National Bank 1967) 4
42
Jones 28
Figure 9 Advertisement for the National Bank of
Huntsville published in the December 21 1866
addition of the Huntsville Advocate Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
16
Figure 10 Circa 1908 postcard of cotton season on Westside
Square Image courtesy of the Huntsville History Collection
Although Huntsville
experienced a slight depression
in the post-Civil War
Reconstruction years by the
1880s and 90s Huntsville
experienced tremendous growth
due to the establishment of the
cotton mill industry ldquoTo
emerge from the mire of
Reconstruction Southerners in
the 1880rsquos began to rally around
the cry lsquobring the cotton mills to
the cotton fieldsrsquordquo Due in large
part to the enterprising assistance
of men like Michael and James
OrsquoShaughnessy Tracy Pratt
William Wells and Willard
Wellman Huntsville was able to quickly establish itself as a major milling town The National
Bank of Huntsville along with the cotton mills prospered during the late 19th
and early 20th
century For a span of more than 23 years the National Bank of Huntsville thrived43
Figure 11 Circa 1880 photograph of the National Bank of Huntsville
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
43Patricia H Ryan Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review (Spring-Fall 1985) 27-28 Greg Schmidt
Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009 httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015) Yesterday amp Today 4
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
17
The First National Bank (1889-1971)
Figure 12 Advertisement for the First National Bank
Image courtesy of the Bank File Folder at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
On July 3 1889 leadership at the National Bank chartered the First National Bank
ldquoorganized for the purpose of taking over the business of the National Bank of Huntsvillerdquo44
In
a deed dated July 5 1889 the National Bank of Huntsville sold the bank house and property to
the First National Bank for the sum of $2000045
It was under the management of the First
National Bank that the bank building underwent several changes Whether these changes were a
product of prosperous times or changes in architectural trends (or both) remains unclear The
below photographic timeline and accompanying notations depict the transformation of the
building during the early 20th
century
44
Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History (Huntsville 1951) 11
45
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book RRR (Huntsville July 5 1889) 433 Yesterday amp Today 4-5 The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 11
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
18
Figure 13 Image of Madison Riflemen prior to the Spanish American War c 1889 when the bank was still under
the National Bank of Huntsville By c 1889 the bank building retained its original appearance46
Figure 14 Circa 1889 photograph of the First National Bank Building
Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
By c 1889 the building still retained its original appearance
46
Yesterday ampToday 5
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
19
Figure 15 By c 1900 the First National Bank had JF Hummel amp Sons cut in two doors with transoms on the first
floor47
Two windows flanking a central entry door were added on the second floor a second floor balcony with
wrought iron railing with a central partition was installed and a sign hung from the two center columns Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
47
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville 2
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
20
Figure 16 By c 1925 the bank added a large sign in the entablature of the building two signs were added to the
outside columns the central sign spanning the center columns was removed and a plaque added to the right of the
main entry doors Photograph courtesy of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
The Great Depression
The time of prosperity brought on by the milling industry in Huntsville spurred on
progress in Huntsville for a time By 1930 however the whole of the nation had succumbed to
the trauma inflicted by the Great Depression While Huntsville did experience several hardships
including business failures and high rates of personal bankruptcy the city was spared from many
of the difficulties of the Depression 48
In the early years of the Depression Era Huntsville sustained itself through the milling
industry Many of the local mills continued operating providing Huntsvillians with more than
4000 jobs The milling industry proved to be unstable however facing labor unrest strikes and
walkouts Labor struggles would prove to be a continued issue into the late 1930s49
Added assistance from later New Deal initiatives also helped to support Huntsville during
the Great Depression The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded several projects in
48
Bob Adams 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G Pruitt 146 (Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005) 146
49 Ibid
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
21
Huntsville including the construction of a curb market on Gallatin Street in 1935 and East
Clinton Grammar School in 193850
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was constructed
on McClung Street in 193551
One of the most important contributions of the New Deal to the
city of Huntsville was the large scale documentation of several of Huntsvillersquos iconic historic
buildings by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) HABS reports were completed for
the Weeden House the LeRoy Pope mansion the third county courthouse and the National
Bank building among others52
The HABS report compiled in 1934 gave the first in-depth look at the First National
Bank building The report includes detailed plans photographs and written historical and
descriptive data that help observers better understand the layout of the building and how it has
changed since the 1930s
50
Adams 152-154 51
Adams 151 52
E Walter Burkhardt First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burhardt Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015) E Walter Burkhardt Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933 httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
22
Figure 17 First National Bank building 1934 Note the addition of large sign in the entablature of the building
two signs located on the outside columns two half-light wood panel doors with a single light transom a second
floor balcony with wrought iron railing two second story windows a central second story door and a balcony
partition Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
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httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
23
Figure 18 View of the back of the bank from Big Springs Park 1934 Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
24
Figure 19 South side of the bank building Note the use of five-over-two double-hung windows on the former slave
quarters c 1930 Note also the existence of barred vents and wood entry door to the holding cells on the former
slave quarters The main building features six-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor of the main
building (c 1930) and six-over-six double-hung windows on the first floor of the main building (c 1838) The
stairwell on the south elevation is still open enclosed c 1951 The second floor loggia on the former slave quarters
has been filled in date of enclosure unknown Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
25
Figure 20 Image of the north side of the former slave quarters The two story former slave quarters feature a two
story loggia supported by Doric order columns The first floor has five wood panel entry doors with transoms A
semi-open stairwell located at the west end of the building leads to the second floor The second floor loggia has
infill composed of seven sets of two six-light windows with bead board above in between each Doric column A
simple square balustrade and railing runs the full length of the loggia date of infill unknown An open breezeway
on the east side of the building leads to the main bank building Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
26
Figure 21 Photograph of the bank building vestibule added c 1900 Two wood panel entry doors with transoms
were added to the north and south sides of the vestibule c 1900 The interior doors correspond with the addition of
the half-light wood doors and transoms on the buildingrsquos faccedilade at the turn of the century A set of half-light wood
panel doors lead to the interior of the bank building The vestibule features large crown molding fluted pilasters
and tile flooring Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
27
Figure 22 Image of the interior of the south front office and mantel The south front office features plaster walls
with a central neoclassical mantel (c 1900) and wide plank wood flooring The wood mantel is composed of a wide
molded mantel shelf atop a molded under-mantel a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box The
fireplace surround and hearth are clad in tile and a small wrought iron firebox and grate can be seen c 1900 This
mantel is still intact today A wood panel door with bullseye corner blocks and fluted door surround to the left of the
fireplace leads into public space of the bank A large built-in with glass doors is located to the right of the fireplace
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
28
Figure 23 View towards the northwest corner of the bank The public space and work space of the bank building
features three member crown molding plaster walls six-over-six double-hung windows and tile floors The
windows feature bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window
jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen separates the work
space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany features molded cornices and entablatures atop
smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space
between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank
screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
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1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
29
Figure 24 View of the public space window on the south wall The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up
flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath
each window match the appearance of the folding shutters A large bank screen the corner of which can be seen in
the right side of the frame separates the work space from the public space The bank screen built in mahogany
features molded cornices and entablatures atop smooth shaft Ionic columns A total of 12 columns support the
entablatures Mahogany chair rails fill the space between each column Five brass latus cashiers windows are
evenly spaced along the bank screen The entire bank screen is capped by brass arrow shaped crockets Image
courtesy of the Library of Congress
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
30
Figure 25 First and second floor floor plans for the bank building Note the second floor is no longer extant aside
from the front bedrooms Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
31
Figure 26 Holding cell basement first floor and second floor floor plans for the bank former slave quarters
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
32
Figure 27 Front elevation Note the second floor balcony and second floor door (added c 1900) no longer extant
South open air stairwell in elevation is now enclosed Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
33
Figure 28 Side and rear elevations and sections Major changes to the building include the removal of the second
floor in 1951 the infill and expansion of the former slave quarters and loggia in 1951 and 1967 removal of the bank
screen alteration of the north front office removal of the balcony removal of vents and Fountain Row entry door on
the former slave quarters and the infill of the exterior stairs and breezeway Note on the Southeast elevation the
presences of two wood panel doors on the first floor of the main bank building no longer extant
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
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httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
34
Figure 29 Details of interior and exterior architectural elements Image courtesy of the Library of Congress
Observations
Stylistic evidence of remaining material (molding doors and windows) and examination
of historic images of the building point to major alterations to the bank at the turn of the century
Two offices were added to the north and south side of the front of the bank building and a
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
35
vestibule added in between the offices behind the main entry door Two half-light wood panel
doors with transoms were added on the faccedilade and serve as entrances for each office Two more
wood panel doors leading to the front offices were added to the vestibule area Two doors were
cut into the south elevation A wood panel door with three-light transom located on the fourth
bay and a pair of wood panel doors with a three-light transom on the sixth bay were added to the
main bank building Photographs from the turn of the century show the addition the second floor
balcony windows and doors on the faccedilade of the building The appearance style and material
used on the bank screen (especially when compared to the mantel in the front office) suggest that
it was a turn of the century addition as well Molding remnants in the two remaining upper
rooms coupled with an existing interior door suggest that major interior renovations were
completed in c 1900
World War II and the Redstone Arsenal (1941-1950)
Figure 30 Image of local troops in formation in front of the bank building during WWII Note that the balcony is
still intact in 1942 Balcony may have been removed during building renovations in 1951 Image taken from 1951
renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
The entry of the United States into the World War II conflict in December of 1941
marked the beginning of a new era of progress in the city of Huntsville In July 1941 Huntsville
established the Huntsville Arsenal a $40 million chemical war plant The establishment of the
Huntsville Arsenal and the presence of the US military in the Huntsville would impact the city
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
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1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
36
for decades to come53
In October 1941 the army broke ground on a second facility the Redstone Ordinance
Plant meant for the manufacture of shells grenades and explosives By February 1943 the
second Redstone Ordinance Plant became the Redstone Arsenal The South Bombing Range a
third military facility became operational in May 1943 This military complex spurred the fast
pace growth of the cityrsquos population54
Beyond intensive population growth the establishment of the Arsenal helped to boost the
local economy By the Wars end in the fall of 1945 however the plants closed By 1947 the
Huntsville Arsenal was considered military surplus and was posted for sale Fearing the collapse
of Huntsvillersquos economy with the closure of the Arsenal US Senator John Sparkman worked
with White House administration and the military to develop a new use for the Redstone Arsenal
Sparkmanrsquos efforts proved fruitful and in October 1949 the army moved its Ordnance Research
and Development Division Sub-Office for Rockets from Fort Bliss Texas to Huntsville55
The Arsenal in Huntsville helped to usher the United States into the space age in the
1950s when a team of German scientists led by Wernher von Braun arrived in Huntsville The
innovations introduced by the team of scientists and the prosperity that those advances cultivated
within Huntsvillersquos economy launched a sharp growth in Huntsvillersquos population In a span of
10 years the population more than quadrupled jumping from 16000 residents to 72000
residents in the decade of the 1950s56
The Redstone Arsenal was further expanded in 1955
when the missile testing program was transferred from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in
California to Huntsville By 1956 the Redstone Arsenal had transformed itself into the nationrsquos
major center for rocket science and experimentation helping to marshal in a new dawn for
Huntsville development57
53
Carroll Van West Old Town National Register Nomination (Huntsville National Park Service 2010) section 8 pages 73-74
54 Ibid
55
West section 8 page 74 56
Linda Bayer and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey 1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review (Summer-Fall 1993) 3
57 West section 8 page 74
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
37
Huntsvillersquos Population Growth58
Year Acers Change Population Change Acre
1860 640 - 3634 - 57
1870 2560 300 4907 35 19
1880 1440 -44 4977 14 35
1890 1440 0 7995 606 55
1900 1440 0 8068 09 56
1910 1440 0 7611 -57 53
1920 1440 0 8018 53 56
1930 1548 75 11554 441 75
1940 1548 0 13050 129 84
1950 2728 762 16437 260 60
1960 32659 10972 72365 3403 22
1970 69290 1122 139282 925 20
1980 72557 47 142513 23 20
1990 103171 422 159789 121 15
58
Bayer and Paetz 6
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
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httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
38
The Space Age (1957-1966)
Figure 31 Naturalization ceremony for the German rocket scientists on November 11 1954 Left to right Walter
Wiesman Robert Searcy (child possibly Mike Wiesman) Eberhard Rees Hoffman Birney Gerd DeBeek Magnus
von Braun Otto Eisenhardt Hilde von Braun Inge Dannenberg Sergeant Appler Konrad Dannenberg Dr JB
Tschinkel Pastor George F Hart of St Markrsquos Evangelical Lutheran Church and Dr Martin Schilling Image
courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Huntsville officially entered the Space Age in November of 1957 after President Dwight
Eisenhower ordered the launch of the nationrsquos first satellite into space The Army Ballistic
Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory played an instrumental role in the development of
the Jupiter C rocket which was launched by the army at Cape Canaveral Florida on January 31
1958 By March 1959 the US Army Ordinance and Missile Command formed its headquarters
at the Arsenal This program oversaw the armyrsquos Advanced Research Projects Agency part of
the militaryrsquos outer space program59
The National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) allocated part of the
Redstone airfield to the Marshall Space Flight Center in 1960 This center was part of the
nationrsquos manned space program administered by von Braun The Marshall Center sustained
more than 1000 on site contractors and over 5000 civilian employees helping to transform the
predominantly agrarian town into a more diverse and technically driven city The capstone of
this transformation was the jump in the average personal income which surpassed the per capita
59
Ibid
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
39
income of the rest of Alabama by 20 percent in 196660
Urban Renewal (1951-1967)
Figure 32 Image of ldquoCotton Rowrdquo in 1962 after the 1914 Madison County Courthouse was torn down
The removal of the third county courthouse was one of many of the projects completed by the Central City Urban
Renewal Program Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
With the transformation of the cityrsquos economy came the transformation of the cityrsquos
landscape Urban Renewal spurred on by Huntsvillersquos desire to become more advanced helped
to reshape the downtown square Huntsville demolished many of its historic downtown
buildings to make way for modern architecture most notably the removal of the third county
courthouse and cotton row While the First National Bank building was spared complete
demolition it did not fully escape the clutches of renewal The bank building then became a
canvas on which the First National Bank could draw the story of Huntsvillersquos new found
prosperity
60
West section 8 page 75
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
40
Figure 33 1951 image of the First National Bank building Note the removal of the second story balcony and the
alterations of the second story apertures Image taken from 1951 renovation booklet entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 courtesy of Henry Turner
In a 1951 pamphlet produced by the First National Bank entitled The First National Bank
Building 1835-1951 bank managers highlight the changes that had taken place in the newly
remodeled building stating
The old vault has been torn away and a new one built at the rear of the enlarged
banking room this embodying all modern safeguards for the protection of the
funds and valuables of the bank and its customers
This old building was found to be in a remarkable state of preservation The
heavy timbers were of poplar The door and window jambs were of red cedar as
were the lintels and the columns and floors of the verandas in the rear There
were found to be as sound as when installed and wherever possible have been
retained for they are far superior to anything available today
That the laborers builded [sic] even better than they knew is attested by the
complete soundness of the timbers removed when the floors and second story
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
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1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
41
were torn away and by the cunning and ingenuity with which these heavy timers
were mortised keyed and locked into the structure It is evident that they were
artisans of the highest order for these timbers cut and fitted with amazing
exactness identify them as highly skilled workmen proud of their ability
It is interesting to note that when the second floor was torn away a layer of saw
dust was found between it and the ceiling below an early attempt to provide
soundproofing and insulation
Another interesting relic of other days was unearthed when excavating for the
foundation of the extension to the rear of the building A section of cedar
waterpipe [sic] was found this evidently a part of a lateral line from the main
designed to convey water to the bank premises
In the servantsrsquo quarters on the third floor of the extension is the new directors
room and when in the course of remodeling the floors were torn away there was
found a brick floor laid over a bed of rubble more than three feet thick This was
the kitchen floor of days gone by and the chimney in this room was of very
unusual proportions about eight feet wide and fully as deephellip
The building no longer old save in years has seen three-fourths of American
history in the making and now it faces the years ahead during which more
history is to be made in what is our fervent hope expectation and conviction The
Best American Tradition61
As the above excerpt implies the 1950s saw great change to this building The alterations
included the removal of the original vault the removal of the second story living quarters to
make way for a single story bank lobby the addition of modern interior materials including
marble removal of the second story door and addition of a center window removal of the
second story balcony addition of a ramp and side entry to the lobby on the north wall and the
installation of two teller windows on the south wall of the former slave quarters in the area that
was once the holding cells The excerpt also reveals much about the construction methods
employed during the construction of the original structure The document highlights the use of
poplar timbers held together by pegged mortis and tennon joints and the use of red cedar for the
door and window jambs The booklet also identifies archeological evidence of a cedar waterline
and an earlier kitchen at the back of the building in the former slave quarters providing further
insights into the evolution of the building
In a newspaper article from 1958 Elliot Wright states ldquoThe Interior was remodeled in
1951 to improve banking facilities Fortunately the renovations destroyed little of the beauty of
the place Today the blast of test rockets not rifles resounds through the valley residents come
by car not wagon and Alabamarsquos Marble Palace still gleams in the southern sunrdquo this article
further outlines the tenor of the day towards modern renovations to historic buildings62
The
61
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 13
62 Elliot Wright Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
42
publicrsquos views on renovation changed little as the centuryrsquos progress pressed onward By 1967
the bank experienced a second wave of renovations
Figure 34 Clip from a Huntsville Times article dated September 18 1966 The image is a rendering of the
proposed renovations Image courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library63
The First National Bank building high on its limestone bluff above Huntsvillersquos
historic Big Spring stands proud in changing and unfamiliar surroundings It is a
handsome reflection of the past in the center of one of our countryrsquos most
ambitious urban redevelopment programs The Central City Plan It faces the
dramatic new Madison County Courthouse as it faced the three generations of
63
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times (Huntsville September 18 1966) The accompanying article reads ldquoThe main office of the First National Bank of Huntsville last remaining building on the old Cotton Row on the Courthouse Square will be extensively remodeled and enlarged at the cost of between $20000 and $250000 Robert Lowry Bank president announced Friday The construction and remodeling will meet requirements of the Central City urban renewal program said Bill King executive director of the Central City Association An executive office are will be constructed on the bankrsquos left side and will overlook Big Spring International Park King said He said the building will retain its old massive character Architect for the project is Reed Mullins and Associates The construction contract will be based on two work shifts a day six days a week in order to expedite completion Included in the interior remodeling will be the moving of bank offices into the center of the lobby An equipment building will be built in the rear The bankrsquos trust department will be located on a mezzanine and elevators will be installed for customers Existing marble will be removed and used in the new interior remodelingrdquo
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
43
courthouses before Cotton Row its comfortable neighboring row of buildings is
gone Around it are rising multi-storied parking structures and high rise office
buildings64
The poignant remarks made by the bankrsquos officers and directors in the above excerpt
taken from a booklet entitled Yesterday and Today produced in 1967 highlights the struggle that
many Huntsvillians were grappling with in the face of extreme change While board members
identify the significance of the loss of several of Huntsvillersquos historic buildings and the
importance of maintaining the First National Bank building they did not fully grasp the
importance of preserving both the exterior and interior of the building The bank officers and
directors of 1966 and 67 like those in charge of the 1951 remodel shared a similar purpose for
renovation and that was ldquooutwardly to retain all of the old inwardly to make our banking house
as convenient as comfortable and as modern as present day methods would permitrdquo65
The
bankrsquos purpose for remodeling can be directly correlated with the continued growth of the cityrsquos
population as board members commented
It is ironic that on the opening in 1951 the bankrsquos personnel felt that the renovated
bank would serve them and the general public for seventy-five to one hundred
years How little could be foreseen at that time of the tremendous change to
come in this quiet little southern town from the arrival in 1950 of an extremely
important group of German scientists whose accomplishments and tentative
beginnings at Peenemunde were to transform not only Huntsville but the entire
worldhellip As a result of the consequent influx of people and accelerated economic
growth in Huntsville the facilities of a single bank house were no longer
adequate 66
64
Yesterday and Today 1 65
Ibid 66
Yesterday and Today 1-2
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
44
Figure 35 Image of bank members discussing plans during the remodeling of the interior in the Spring of 1967
Image taken from booklet Yesterday and Today courtesy of Henry Turner
The booklet goes into detail of the renovations that occurred to the building in 1967
stating
Today after thoughtful remodeling with the aim of retaining as much as possible
the original structure the handsome limestone faccedilade encloses a completely
modern banking house tastefully redecorated throughout Private executive
offices have been added to the north wall of the lobby eliminating First Nationalrsquos
former unique arrangement where officers actually received customers behind the
tellerrsquos cages An entrance to the lobby on the south has been added for relief of
traffic and for the convenience of customershellip An elevator now ascends to the
second floor where only the balcony remains today of the original second floor
apartments living quarters for the cashier who was once required by law to reside
on the premises The apartment was removed to create a lofty spacious banking
lobby The balcony will now serve as a reception room for the Trust Department
which together with the personnel and internal auditing departments will be
located in the second floor extension to the rear of the building originally
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
45
servantrsquos quarters67
The renovation work that took place in 1966 and 1967 was designed by Reed Mullins
and Associates and was constructed by General Contractors of Decatur Aside from
constructing the one story executive offices on the north side of the building the installation of
an elevator the addition of a customer entrance on the south wall and the removal of the
mahogany teller cages the bank also rearranged the bank lobby reusing the marble added in
1951 expanded the back of the structure enclosed an exterior stairwell on the south side of the
building and erected the weathervane formerly located on the cupola of the third Madison
County courthouse68
In 2017 the 1967 renovations will have aged into significance To say that these
alterations are not important would be misguided for they are threads of the history of change
that has occurred to this building representative of an era of tremendous transformation in
Huntsville and are therefore woven into the fabric of the bank buildingrsquos history
After the 1967 renovations the bank changed very little Since the ownership of the First
National Bank the bank building changed names four times In 1971 the bank became the First
Alabama Bancshares Inc after the First National Bank of Huntsville the First National Bank of
Montgomery and the Exchange Security Bank of Birmingham partnered to form the new bank
corporation By 1994 Alabama Bancshares Inc became Regions Financial Corporation In
2010 Regions Financial Corporation donated the bank property to Big Spring Partners and in
2014 a lease agreement between Big Spring Partners and Robert Broadway was created69
Since its construction in the early half of the 19th
century the First National Bank
building has seen many changes to itself and its city This building has witnessed and endured
many of the same struggles and successes experienced by the city state and country as a whole
for more than 175 years The building as ever remains a vital part of historic downtown
Huntsville representing both traditional significance and modern progress a bastion of
Huntsville history
67
Yesterday and Today 7-8
68 Bayer Brief History 2 BJ Richey First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
69
Bayer Brief History 2
46
Bibliography
1837 The Hard Times Harvard Business School Historical Collections 2012
httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
46
Bibliography
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httpwwwlibraryhbseduhccrises1837html (accessed May 11 2015)
Adams Bob 1930-1939 The Great Depression In Eden of the South edited by Ranee G
Pruitt 146 Huntsville Huntsville-Madison County Public Library 2005
Alabama Civil War Battles nd httpwwwnpsgovcivilwaralabamahtm (accessed June 26
2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Lacy in the 1920 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1920usfedcenamph=104557265ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t668858
73_p36166162672_kpidz0q3d36166162672z0q26aidz0q3d323322458271z0q26pgz0q3d
32771z0q26pgplz0q3dpidz0q257caid (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Evelyn Kelly in the US Find a Grave Index 1600-Current August 1984
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=FindAGraveUSamph=90070125ampindiv=tryampo_vc=RecordOtherRecordampti
d=66885873amppid=36166162672amprhSource=6061 (accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Maud Mclure Kelly in the 1940 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-binssedllgss=angs-
gampnew=1amprank=1ampmsT=1ampgsfn=Maud+McClureampgsln=Kellyampmswpn__ftp=Birming
ham2c+Jefferson2c+Alabama2c+USAampmswpn=26571ampmswpn_PInfo=8-
|0|1652393|0|2|3246|3|0|1498|26571|0|ampMSAV=0ampmsbdy=1888ampcp=0ampcatbucket=rst
(accessed May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George Steele in the Alabama Marriages to 1825 December 24 1823
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=eamalamph=4059ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p1956569
65_kpidz0q3d195656965z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed May 07
2015)
Ancestrycom Capt George Steele in the Web Alabama Huntsville-Madison County Public
Library Obituary Index 1819-2006 October 31 1855 httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=WebSearch-
4179amph=109634ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t12422001_p-
264879464_kpidz0q3d-264879464z0q26pgz0q3d32770z0q26pgplz0q3dpid (accessed
May 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mathew W Steel in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryampindiv=tryamph=19039600 (accessed 05 07 2015)
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
47
Ancestrycom John F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038877ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203660179_kpidz0q3d203660179z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom George G Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038878ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p203668372_kpidz0q3d203668372z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Salley F Steele in the 1850 United States Federal Census nd
httpsearchancestrycomcgi-
binssedlldb=1850usfedcenancestryamph=19038880ampti=0ampindiv=tryampgss=ptampssrc=pt_t
12422001_p204038003_kpidz0q3d204038003z0q26pgz0q3d32768z0q26pgplz0q3dpid
(accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Mary Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204118684 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Ellen Elizabeth Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204120219 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom William Angelo Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204148183 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Ancestrycom Susan Eliza Steele Jones Family Tree nd
httptreesancestrycomtree12422001person204367766 (accessed 05 07 2015)
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Brief History Huntsville
nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Bank Building 216 West Side Square Huntsville AL Brief
Hisotry nd
Bayer Linda George Steele Huntsvilles Antebellum Architect The Historic Huntsville
Quarterly Of Local Architecture and Preservation Spring 1979 3-22
Bayer Linda and Juergen Paetz How Huntsville GrewBoundary and Annexation Survey
1810-1993 The Huntsville Historical Review Summer-Fall 1993
Bounds Sarah Etheline Reconstruction in Huntsville and Madison County Alabama 1865-
1869 The Huntsville Historical Review October 1973 3-23
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
48
Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama- Huntsville 1st October 1835 Southern
Advocate Vol XI no 40 Huntsville January 26 1836
Brantley William H Banking In Alabama 1916-1860 Vol Vol I Private Publisher 1961
Burkhardt E Walter First National Bank Jefferson Street amp Fountain Row Huntsville
Madison County AL Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1934
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0351 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Miss Howard Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
wwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0363 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Old Madison County Court House Court Square Huntsville Madison County AL
Library of Congress-Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0352 (accessed July 2 2015)
mdash Pope-Spragins House 407 Echols Avenue Huntsville Madison County AL Liberary of
Congress- Historic American Buildings Survey 1933
httpwwwlocgovpicturescollectionhhitemal0359 (accessed July 2 2015)
Clay CC comp A Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama Alabama Marmaduke J
Slade 1843
Cumbow Victoria Huntsvilles Civil War history shown through diaries and letters April 11
2011 httpblogalcombreaking201104huntsvilles_civil_war_historyhtml (accessed
June 17 2015)
Daniel B Turner and Wife Susan D Turner to Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 3 1837
First National Slates Remodeling Additions The Huntsville Times Huntsville September 18
1966
Gabel Martha B General OM Mitchels Occupation of Huntsville The Huntsville Historical
Review 1971 12-28
Henry F Halsey and Wife to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville
October 25 1854
Henry Stokes and Wife Harriet D Stokes to the Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama at
Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 24 1837
Henry T Duncan and Wife Eliza Pyke Duncan to the Branch of the Bank of the State of
Alabama at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville December 4 1837
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
49
John Whiting Commissioner and Trustee Deed of Conveyance to Stephen S Ewing Deed
Book BB Huntsville July 10 1857
Jones Pat The First National Bank The Huntsville Historical Review April-July 1975 3-30
Lowe BM Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama Huntsville The Democrat October
1837 1
Meek Alexander B comp Supplement Aikins Digest of the Laws of the State of Alabama
Alabama White amp Snow 1841
Polites Taylor M The Bloody Occupation of Northern Alabama February 28 2013
httpopinionatorblogsnytimescom20130228the-bloody-occupation-of-northern-
alabama (accessed June 17 2015)
Richey BJ First National Holds to Tradition Huntsville Times April 30 1967
Ryan Patricia H Tracy Pratt The Huntsville Historical Review Spring-Fall 1985
Schmidt Greg Huntsville Encyclopedia of Alabama November 30 2009
httpwwwencyclopediaofalabamaorgarticleh-2498 (accessed June 30 2015)
Stephen S Ewing and Wife Polly H Ewing to The Branch of the Bank of the State of Alabama
at Huntsville Deed Book Q Huntsville March 15 1837
Storey Deborah Civil War 150th aniversary of the Union occupation of Huntsville April 15
2012 httpblogalcombreaking201204the_civil_war_union_occupationhtml
(accessed June 17 2015)
The First National Bank Building 1835-1951 Brief History Huntsville 1951
The National Bank of Huntsville to Deed The First National Bank of Huntsville Deed Book
RRR Huntsville July 5 1889
The State of Alabama to Deed Northern Bank of Alabama Deed Book Z Huntsville October
14 1854
Vaughn F Charles Jr George Steele Architect and Builder of the Nineteenth Century The
Huntsville Historical Review (The Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society) 13 no
1amp2 (Jan-April 1983) 3-24
West Carroll Van Old Town National Register Nomination Huntsville National Park
Service 2010
Wright Elliot Huntsvilles Marble Palace The Birmingham News June 05 1958
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
50
Yesterday amp Today The First National Bank Brief History Huntsville The First National Bank
1967
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
51
EXHIBIT C
DESCRIPTION OF ELEVATIONS AND CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES
Figure 36 First National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
The First National Bank building is a two story Greek Revival building designed and
built c 1838-1840 by architect George Gilliam Steele The bank is temple like in appearance
and features a low pitch raised seam metal gable roof supported by Ionic order limestone
columns atop a continuous limestone foundation A copula and weather vane originally located
on the third county courthouse (1914-1963) was added after the courthouse was demolished
The symmetrical front faccedilade features a centrally located set of wood pocket entry doors (c
1838) leading into a small vestibule with a second set of glass security doors (c 2000) The
central entrance is flanked on either side by smaller wood panel entry doors with four light
transoms over top (1900) Three five-over-two double-hung windows (1900 installation date on
the north and south windows 1951 installation date on the center window) can be seen on the
upper enclosed mezzanine story The bank building faccedilade is clad in limestone blocks while the
other three elevations are covered in stucco Limestone steps extend across the front faccedilade and
a decorative wrought iron fence surrounds the property on the north and south side of the
building and date to the buildings original construction Two retaining walls on the south side of
the building and on the north side of the building overlooking the bluff date to the buildingrsquos
original construction An early flagstone court yard can be seen on the north side of the
building
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
52
Figure 37 North elevation showing office addition 1967 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 38 South elevation showing retaining wall and fence c 1838 Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
53
A single story stucco office wing addition on the north side of the building was
constructed in 1967 and features a flat roof a wood panel entry door and pilasters The north
side of the office addition features three five-over-two double-hung windows with stone lintels
and sills The north elevation of the main bank building features six five-over-two double-hung
clerestory windows with stone lintels and sills The south elevation has six six-over-six double-
hung ground floor windows and six five-over-two clerestory windows with stone lintels and
sills
Figure 39 South elevation of the rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
A large three-story wing located on the west side of the building once served as the slave
quarters and features a flat roof and stucco siding atop a limestone block foundation The west
elevation features a teller window (1951) on the basement level four six-over-six double-hung
windows on the first floor and four five-over-two double-hung windows on the second floor
(windows feature stone lintels and sills) A breezeway and open stair well that connected the
rear wing to the main bank building was enclosed in 1951 Additionally a small stairwell
addition to the west side of the wing was constructed in 1951 The west elevation of the rear
wing features a limestone exterior stairwell (1951) with a pair of metal exterior doors leading
into the basement level (c 2000) A single metal door located at the top of the limestone stairs
leads to the first floor (c 2000) and is flanked on the left by a fixed two light window (c 2000)
The north elevation of the rear wing once served as a two-story porch for the rear wing but was
enclosed in 1951 The north elevation now features a pair of two light fixed windows on the first
and second floors and a set of four two-light fixed windows located on a diagonal wall (c 2000)
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
54
Figure 40 West elevation of rear wing Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 41 North elevation of rear wing showing the diagonal wall and retaining wall overlooking the bluff at Big
Spring Park Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
55
Several interior elements remain intact in the southeast corner office of the main
bank building A mantel baseboards crown molding and interior shutters and window
surround date to renovations completed by the First National Bank board in 1900 and are
still intact today The wood mantel is composed of a wide molded mantel shelf atop a
molded under-mantel and a pair of Ionic fluted columns on either side of the fire box
Evidence of a faux wood grain finish was found during a paint analysis of the office which
was completed by Katie Stamps Three part crown molding and large baseboard run the
full perimeter of the room Molding around the interior and exterior doors is composed of
bullseye corner blocks and molded door surrounds One six-over-six double-hung window
(1900) features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on
either side of the window jamb fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath the window match
the appearance of the folding shutters
Figure 42 Image of the mantel located in the southeast office c 1900 Evidence of a faux wood grain finish
was found during a paint analysis of the office analysis completed by Katie Stamps Ima ge taken by Jessica
White May 2015
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
56
Figure 43 Image of the remaining wood panel pocket shutters crown molding and baseboard molding c
1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding
Interior shutters on either side of the window jambs fold up flush within the wall giving the window the
appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels located beneath each window match the appea rance of
the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
57
Figure 44 Close-up view of the pocket shutters c 1900 The six-over-six double-hung window features
bullseye corner blocks and fluted surround molding Interior shutters on ei ther side of the window jambs
fold up flush within the wall giving the window the appearance of jamb paneling Molded window panels
located beneath each window match the appearance of the folding shutters Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
58
EXHIBIT D
VISUAL SURVEY AND PRESERVATION ASSESSMENT
Visual Survey-
Pictures in this section of the First National Bank Easement are examples of overarching issues
with the building but are not a complete catalog of all of the individual issues present on the
building
Figure 45 National Bank Building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
59
Figure 46 Southeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the plant growth in the corner of the cornice Plant growth
can hold moisture to the building causing erosion and plant roots may damage stonework Note the use of Portland
cement and chipping along the raking cornice See also ghosting marks of the word ldquoFirstrdquo in the frieze These
ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
60
Figure 47 Gable end of the front faccedilade Note the weathervane was originally located on the third county
courthouse cupola but was moved to the roof ridge of the bank building in 1963 after the courthouse was
demolished See also several patches on the building that have been filled in with Portland cement These marks
could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
61
Figure 48 Northeast corner of the front faccedilade Note the chipping along the cornice and column abacus See also
ghosting marks of the word ldquoBankrdquo in the frieze These ghosting marks are the result of signage for the First
National Bank added to the building in 1951 (see figure 39) See also several patches on the building that have been
filled in with Portland cement These marks could be the result of former signage attached to the building faccedilade
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
62
Figure 49 Two of the columns located on the southeast corner of the building Note patches on the columns and
main faccedilade filled in with Portland cement Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
63
Figure 50 amp 51 Note extensive cracking on several of the column bases Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
64
Figures 52-55 Note the several patches and repairs to front columns filled in with Portland cement Pictures taken
by Jessica White May 2015
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
65
Figures 56-58 Note evidence of spalling on several of the front columns Pictures taken by Jessica White May
2015
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
66
Figures 59-62 Note the evidence of cracks along the bottom of the columns shafts Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
67
Figure 63 View of the northeast corner of the building Note severe spallingdelamination on plinth and steps
Picture taken by Jessica White May 2015
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
68
Figures 64-67 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the northeast plinth most likely caused by
moisture erosion and freeze thaw cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
69
Figures 68 amp 69 Note severe spallingdelamination on the bottom step on the northeast corner of the building
delamination most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw cycles
Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
70
Figures 70-74 Evidence of severe spallingdelamination and cracking on the first step at the center of the building
faccedilade Damage most likely caused by moisture pooling on and eroding the veins of the stone and freeze thaw
cycles Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
71
Figures 75 amp 76 Damaged and cracked stone floor in the peristyle of the building faccedilade Pictures taken by Jessica
White May 2015
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
72
Figures 77-80 Images of the exterior wood panel doors and five-over-two double-hung windows added to the
building faccedilade c 1900 Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
73
Figures 81-83 Plinth block on the southeast corner of the bank building faccedilade Note several cracks along the front
and sides of the plinth block and the use of Portland cement Pictures taken by Jessica White May 2015
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
74
Figures 84 amp 85 Close-up of southeast plinth base and southeast side of plinth block Note Portland cement infill
along the bottom of the base and extensive cracking along the south side of the plinth Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
75
Figures 86 -88 South side of the main bank building and side stairs located at the southeast corner of the building
facing the West Side of the Square Note blueish staining on the stone a result of the copper gutter system Note
also severe cracking and chipping along the top riser and tread Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
76
Figures 89 amp 90 Side stairs on the south side of the main building located on the southeast corner of the building
facing Fountain Circle Note the damage to the right side of the stairs This was the location of a handrail The
handrail has been removed and Portland cement used to infill holes Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
77
Figures 91 amp 92 Close-up image of damage to the right side of the steps from an earlier handrail and image of
cracking due to use of Portland cement and cut for gutter drain on the left side of the steps Image taken by Jessica
White May 2015
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
78
Figures 93 amp 94 Images of built-in stone gutter drainage and damage to the side steps caused by the removal of a
handrail and infill with Portland cement Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
79
Figures 95 amp 96 Image of the southeast pilaster base Note the large crack running from the plinth to the base of
the pilaster Second image of large crack and Portland cement infill along the meeting joint of the stone and
galvanized soffits Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
80
Figure 97 Image of the stone foundation on the south side of the main bank building Image taken to the left of the
side steps where the downspout meets the built-in stone gutter drain Note extensive chipping and Portland cement
infill Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
81
Figure 98 Image of the south side of the main bank building Note the
vents along the foundation Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 99 Image of one of the vents on the south side of the main bank building Note cracks throughout the
stucco and the cracks along the vent opening Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
82
Figure 100 View of the crawlspace through vent opening Note the hand hewn sill plate that rests on a stacked
limestone foundation original to the buildings construction See also floor joists note that these joists are machine
sawn rather than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900
Figure 101 View of the floor joist beneath the main bank building Note that the joists are machine sawn rather
than hand hewn and were likely added after the original date of construction circa 1900 Note also evidence of
heart pine wood flooring possibly subflooring Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
83
Figure 102 View of heart pine wood flooring circa 1900 Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
84
Figure 103 Image of one of the windows on the south side of the building Note the cracking in the stucco Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
85
Figures 104 amp105 Existing window condition The wood frames on each of the windows appear to be in good
repair Windows should be scraped re-puttied and repainted Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
86
Figures 106 amp 107 Damage to stone foundation beneath the gutter downspout next to the south wall enclosed
stairwell Note also a puncture mark on the copper downspout Gutter system should be repaired and damage to
stone repaired Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
87
Figures 108-110 Pitting in the limestone can be found on all four sides of the building most predominantly on the
south side of the building and retaining wall The damage is due in large part to moisture erosion andor abrasion
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
88
Figures 111 amp 112 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by
Jessica White May 2015
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
89
Figure 113 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
Figure 114 Image of pitting and excess Portland cement
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
90
Figures 115 amp 116 Patches using Portland cement can be seen throughout the buildings exteior Note seperation
between patches and stone Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
91
Figures 117 amp 118 Portland cement patches and pitting on stone exterior Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
92
Figures 119 amp 120 Portland cement patches See the severe separation and erosion and cracking of the stone
around the cement patches Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
93
Figure 121 Metal remnants and Portland cement patches in the south retaining wall Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
Figure 122 Portland cement patches and repointing along a pilaster on the southwest corner of the rear addition
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
94
Figures 123 amp 124 Evidence of cracks and chipping can be found on the exterior stone and stucco surfaces of the
bank building Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
95
Figures 125 amp 126 Former vent infilled c 1951 Note the use of Portland cement in patches and pointing See
also cracks in limestone at the bottom of the first frame Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
96
Figures 127 amp 128 Former opening infilled Date of infill unknown Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
97
Figures 129 amp 130 Teller window (c 1951) located on the rear addition south wall Note moisture and abrasion
issues due to teller window awning and gutter system Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
98
Figure 131 Evidence of moisture and abrasion issues caused by teller window awing and gutter system Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
99
Figures 132 amp 133 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note also cracking stucco Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
100
Figures 134 amp 135 Peeling paint and exposed metal on the galvanized gutter system on the rear wing of the bank
building Note the ghosting marks for a Regions bank sign on the second photograph Images taken by Jessica
White May 2015
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
101
Figure 136 Northeast corner of the bank building View of the north plinth block and 1967 side addition Image
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 137 North side of the plinth block Note chipped and crumbling stucco at the base of the plinth Damage
likely caused by moisture erosion caused by the installation of a lift machine Image taken by Jessica White May
2015
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
102
Figures 138 amp 139 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood
should be removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist
Images taken by Jessica White May 2015
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
103
Figure 140 Damage to the northeast side of the plinth caused by lift machine Lift machine and plywood should be
removed and the damage to the stone and stucco repaired by a qualified stone mason or stone specialist Images
taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 141 Damage to the concrete foundation on the 1967 north office addition Damage caused by the
installation of a metal pipe Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
104
Figure 142 Image of cracked and damaged plinth stone on the building faccedilade Damage caused by lift machine
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 143 Image of cracked and delaminating stone foundation caused by the concrete slab foundation of the 1967
addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
105
Figure 144 Image of the 1967 north addition Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 145 Close-up image of the stucco finish on the 1967 addition Note cracking in stucco along cynderblock
mortar joints Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
106
Figures 146 amp 147 View of the north side of the building behind the 1967 addition Note the vegetation
overgrowth The vegetation should be trimmed away from the building to prevent moisture and abrasion damage
Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
107
Figure 148 Image of a stone step located in the side yard of the First National Bank building property
Step originally located on the side entrance of the bank building The steps were likely removed when the 1967
addition was constructed Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
Figure 149 Close up of the stone step located in the side yard of the bank property Note the markings in the stone
where a handrail used to be The steps were likely removed when the 1967 additon was constructed Image taken
by Jessica White
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
108
Figure 150 Image of light post and retaining wall on the south side of the building Image taken by Jessica White
May 2015
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
109
Figures 151 amp 152 Close-up of the light post Note the abrasion damage to the corners of the post Image taken by
Jessica White May 2015
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
110
Figure 153 Close-up of concrete infill along the base of the light post Image taken by Jessica White May 2015
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
111
Preservation Assessment-
Consult a qualified stone mason or stone specialist-
o Use of Portland cement in stone repairs
Portland cement- cementious based mortar often used in later repairs
to historic masonry buildings This type of mortar is harder and more
rigid than earlier lime based mortars The use of cementious based
mortars can have a detrimental effect on historic masonry builds
causing stone brick and tile to crack and erode against the inflexible
Portland cement infill
Portland cement patches and pointing should be carefully removed
and repaired using a more appropriate mortar Consult Preservation
Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs2-repoint-
mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern south retaining wall front columns building
faccedilade
o Spallingdelamination and cracks
Spalling-chips or fragments that fall from the exposed face of
masonry in reaction to compressive forces generated by movement or
thermal expansion of building materials Delamination- breaking apart
in layers usually along the bedding plane (the bonding layer formed
in sedimentary rock by fine-grained minerals deposited over a long
period of time
Spalling and delamination is most often the result of moisture
infiltration abrasion pressure andor freeze thaw cycles
Issues causing spalling and delamination should be mitigated and
necessary repairs made to the damaged stone if possible
Major areas of concern front steps plinths peristyle floor and south
retaining wall
o Repointing
Pointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the
joints of a masonry wall and replacing it with new mortar Repointing
helps to maintain the visual and physical integrity of the masonry
Improper repointing through the use of inappropriate mortars or
application can have detrimental impact on the visual and physical
stability of the structure
A qualified mason should be consulted to determine the appropriate
methods material and areas for pointing repairs and repointing
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
112
Consult Preservation Brief 2 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-
preservebriefs2-repoint-mortar-jointshtm
Major areas of concern front steps columns faccedilade retaining walls
on the north and south of the building
o Cleaning and Water-Repellents on building exterior
Soiling- are materials that stain and deteriorate a buildingrsquos exterior
surfaces including dirt soot mold bird guano etc Stone or
masonry buildings should be cleaned periodically to prevent
deterioration
A qualified stone mason or specialist should be consulted to
determine the types of soiling and the best method for cleaning the
buildingrsquos exterior surfaces Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Water-Repellent or waterproof coatings- water infiltration and erosion
are majors concerns for the First National Bank Building A water-
repellent or waterproof coating might be advisable a qualified stone
mason or specialist should be consulted to determine if this is an
appropriate course of action Consult Preservation Brief 1
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs1-cleaning-water-
repellenthtm
Removal of debris and vegetation close to or on the buildingrsquos exterior
o The growth of vegetation on or near a buildingrsquos exterior can cause moisture
and abrasion damage
o Major areas of concern building faccedilade north side elevation
Stucco Repair
o Stucco an exterior form of plaster that uses Portland cement lime and sand
or lime water sand and a binder of hair or straw
o Over time stucco can crack and flake off and must be repaired maintained
andor replaced A contractor or craftsman that specializes in the repair of
historic stucco work should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 22
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs22-stuccohtm
o Major areas of concern South elevation West elevation and North elevation
Window repair
o Historic wood windows are a character defining feature of a historic
building and should be repaired and maintained rather than replaced
o Wood windows must be periodically repaired Repairs often include
scraping and repainting deteriorated window frames sills and surrounds
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm
113
removal and replacement of putty removal and repair of glazing patching
and repairing deteriorated sections of wood in the window unit and repair of
window mechanisms such as locks and weights A craftsman that specializes
in historic window repair should be consulted Consult Preservation Brief 9
httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs9-wooden-windowshtm
Drainage
o Moisture infiltration is a huge concern for historic masonry buildings Water
can erode stone surfaces and freeze thaws can cause stone to crack spall
and delaminate Proper drainage is key in preventing the deterioration of
stone A drainage specialist should be consulted to inspect the buildings
gutter system and other areas of moisture concern An appropriate plan of
action can then be developed and implemented Consult Preservation Brief
39 httpwwwnpsgovtpshow-to-preservebriefs39-control-unwanted-
moisturehtm