Farmers and Merchants Bank
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Farmers and Merchants Bank is a historic lending institution in downtown Los Angeles, California, USA, known both for its architecture and its pivotal role in the economic development of early Los Angeles.
The Farmers and Merchants Bank was the first incorporated bank in Los Angeles, founded in 1871 by Isaias W. Hellman, a successful merchant, real estate speculator and banker, and brother of Hermann W. Hellman. Isaias was to remain president of the bank till his death in 1920.
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Architecture
Designed in the Classical Revival style, the Farmers and Merchants Bank remains one of Southern California's finest examples of the early "temples of finance" which were popular at the turn of the century. Its two-story facade, reminiscent of a Roman temple, is punctuated by an entrance framed with Corinthian columns topped by a large triangular pediments. Built in 1905, the bank was designed by the firm of Morgan and Walls.
History
The Farmer's and Merchants Bank was founded based upon the funding of three French investors, Dominique Amestoy, Lecouvreur and Joseph Mascarel (previously the mayor of Los Angeles), and the French-speaking Swiss investor Charles Ducommun. Each subscribed $500,000 of the bank's capital.
Modern-day
The Farmers & Merchants Bank building has been established as Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument #271.
Much of the original banking room remains, including light fixtures, a central skylight, and the loggia with its Victorian-style railings. Operating as a bank until its closure in the late 80s, the building now functions primarily a as a special events and banquet facility, and film location. The building is slated for renovation by developer Tom Gilmore and Associates.
References
- "Guide Français de Los Angeles et du Sud de la Californie", published in 1932 by F. Loyer et C. Beaudreau
- 1872 Los Angeles City and County Directory
External links
- French Consulate Web Site (http://www.consulfrance-losangeles.org/english/French%20&%20LA.html)
- Los Angeles Conservancy Web Site (http://www.laconservancy.org/tours/downtown/farmers_merchants.shtml)