Alabama is home to many historic buildings, including the Old State Bank Building. The Old State Bank Building is Alabama’s oldest standing bank building, and the history behind it is fascinating! For a closer look at what makes this historic landmark one of the state’s most interesting pieces of architecture, read on.
The Old State Bank Building is located in Decatur at 925 Bank Street. In addition to it being one of Alabama's most impressive pieces of architecture, it's also the most photographed landmark in the city.
By 1840, Old State Bank accumulated more than $1million in debt and closed in 1845. In 1861, while it was occupied by Union troops, the building was used as a field hospital and storehouse.
Following the Civil War, Old State Bank was used as another bank, a doctor's office and residence. After falling into a state of disrepair, the historic building was donated to the City of Decatur in 1975.
The second floor of Old State Bank was the residence of Washington Keyes, the bank's first manager. Mr. Keyes was required to live above the bank to provide extra security.
For the museum, each room on the second floor was restored to the way it would've been when Mr. Keyes lived there. The furnishings are authentic to the time period.
It's rumored that the Old State Bank Building is haunted. Several people have reported seeing ghosts of Union soldiers, a weeping lady and a woman dressed in black.
The Old State Bank Museum is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The next time you're in Decatur, stop by and check out this museum. Admission is FREE.
