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Old State Bank: A Glimpse into Alabama's Banking History

Explore Alabama's banking history at Decatur's Old State Bank, a landmark that has survived wars and depressions since 1833. Currently closed for renovations.

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The Old State Bank in Decatur, Alabama, built in 1833, stands as a monument to the state's early banking days and Decatur's rich history. Serving various roles throughout its existence, including a Civil War hospital, it offers a unique glimpse into 19th-century life in the Tennessee Valley.

A brief summary to Old State Bank

Local tips

  • Check the Decatur Parks and Recreation website for updates on the reopening date after the current restoration project.
  • Explore the Bank Street shopping district where the Old State Bank is located.
  • Visit the nearby Historic Decatur Union Depot, which temporarily holds the Old State Bank's Passport to Your National Parks© cancellation stamp during the restoration.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Old State Bank is located in the Bank Street shopping district and is easily accessible on foot from most points in downtown Decatur. From the Princess Theatre, walk northeast on Second Avenue to Bank Street. The bank will be on your left. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    NARCOG Transit provides public transportation within Decatur. From various points in the city, schedule a ride by calling (256) 580-2088 at least 24 hours in advance. The fare is $2 per one-way trip, payable in exact change. Connect cards are available for $20.

  • Driving

    The Old State Bank is located at 925 Bank St NE, Decatur, AL 35601. From US-31, turn onto AL-67/Beltline Rd. Turn left onto Bank Street. Limited free street-side parking is available. The City Parking Deck at 109 Moulton Street offers hourly parking starting at $0.50 for the first hour, increasing by $0.50 per hour up to $4 for eight hours. Monthly parking is available for $56.

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Discover more about Old State Bank

The Old State Bank, located on Bank Street in Decatur, Alabama, is a tangible link to the past, representing the city's and the state's formative years. Constructed in 1833 as the Tennessee Valley branch of the Alabama State Bank, it quickly became known as the 'Old State Bank'. The bank's establishment in Decatur, a frontier town at the time, was considered controversial, but its location on the Tennessee River and proximity to developing railroads contributed to its early success. The building itself is an example of Federal Empire period architecture, popular in the 1830s. Its notable features included a banking lobby with the original walk-in vault and a replica teller's cage. The second floor housed an apartment for the head cashier, offering a glimpse into early 19th-century life with period antiques. However, the bank's prosperity was short-lived. Due to a nationwide depression in 1837, the Decatur bank franchise was revoked by 1842. The building then took on various roles, including serving as a Union army hospital during the Civil War. Remarkably, it was one of only a few buildings in Decatur to survive the war's destruction. In later years, it functioned as the First National Bank of Decatur, a boarding house, and even a civic meeting space. Today, the Old State Bank serves as a historic museum, showcasing the building's original use as a bank and cashier's apartment in the 1830s. Though currently closed for renovations expected to be completed in 2026, it remains a significant landmark in Decatur, symbolizing the city's resilience and historical importance.

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