First National Bank built, CVB razed

G.D. Fronabarger made several photos of First National Bank at Broadway and Main streets when it was built in 1956 which were published in the Southeast Missourian. Later the building became the Cape Girardeau Convention and Visitors Bureau which is being razed in 2013.

James Baughn wrote about First National Bank in his blog, Pavement Ends. Click this link to read about its history and find links to Southeast Missourian news pages on its opening:

Cape Girardeau's first modern bank

Click this link for a photo gallery by Laura Simon on the former CVB building being razed:

Demolition of old CVB building

In this previous blog, Cape Girardeau police officers moved the last boxes of money to the new bank building:

First National Bank moves

Published April 20, 1956

This exterior view of the new First National Bank building shows most of the large concrete-surfaced parking area on the west and north sides of the structure. Parking stalls have been marked off to guide customers. Note also the two drive-in windows, one on the north and one on the south as defined by the shaded sections. Most business can be transacted here if customers wish.

Published April 20, 1956

Highlighted by its imposing architectural lines, this is the Main street entrance to the new First National Bank Building which will have its formal opening Sunday afternoon. It is of the latest modern designs, with the concrete front at the right contrasting with the brick portion to the left. The concrete overhang at the entrance provides shelter and shade before customers approach the glassed door section.

Published April 20, 1956

This view of the First National Bank building looks from north to south through the lobby and shows the desk area of officers. The huge window, occupying most of the east wall, is covered by soft beige drapes which diffuse the light. Recessed lighting overhead adds to the effect. The lobby floor is terrazzo, while the officers' area is carpeted. Wall colors are predominantly yellow.

Published April 20, 1956

Here is the comfortable customers' lounge of the new First National Bank building. It has a deep carpet in moon gold and soft chairs and divan where customers and the public may come to rest or to meet their friends. It is just off the Main street entrance to the right.

Published April 23, 1956

Taken during mid-afternoon, this picture shows some of the hundreds who visited the new First National Bank building during the formal opening Sunday. Included were many from other towns in this section.

Demolition of the former First National Bank building, later the Cape Girardeau Convention and Visitors Bureau, is seen June 12, 2013.

The building is nearly gone in this photo taken June 18, 2013.