| Creator |
Taylor, Frank H. (Frank Hamilton), 1846-1927 |
| Title |
Mr. Girard's Bank |
| Date |
ca. 1922 |
| Description |
Depicts a busy street scene in front of a row of buildings, including a large classical-style bank owned by Stephen Girard,
and an office for the Saturday Evening Post.
|
| Notes |
The First Bank of the United States occupied this historic building upon July 24th, 1797, removing here form Carpenters' Hall.
The bank discontinued business on March 3, 1812, having failed to secure a renewal of its charter from the Government. The
building was then purchased by Stephen Girard for banking purposes. In this enterprise he succeeded, as in his other activities.
It is the oldest banking structure in America. It was designed by Samuel Blodget, a Philadelphia merchant, and was the first
of the local buildings constructed along classical lines. The edifice is still an item in the properties of the Girard estate.
The present occupant, the Girard National Bank, was organized in 1864. This corporation is now one of the strongest financial
institutions of the city. In 1901, extensive improvements were effected in the interior arrangements, but the exterior remains
unchanged from its original dignified and pleasing simplicity of design and proportion.
|
|
Taylor Catalog Number: 49 |
| Is part of |
Frank H. Taylor Collection |
| Identifier |
Taylor - Case 8-2 [2717.F] |
