First National Bank

The First National Bank is a five-story bank building in Grand Forks with facades combining rusticated ashlar piers, polished granite blocks, and red brick on the upper floors. It occupies a 90 by 100 feet corner lot at the intersection of DeMers Avenue and North Fourth Street.

The building was constructed between 1914 and 1915 as the Scandinavian-American Bank. A merger in 1929 changed its name to First National Bank.

The building displays Classical Revival and Early Commercial style elements that reflect early 20th-century financial institution design in North Dakota. It stands as an example of how prosperous communities expressed their economic strength through solid, commanding structures.

The building stands at a central corner location in downtown, making it easy to find and access. The well-preserved exterior is clearly visible from the street, and visitors can view the architectural details from outside.

When the devastating Red River flood of 1997 and subsequent fires destroyed downtown Grand Forks, this building remained the sole survivor on its block. This resilience makes it a symbol of endurance in a city that recovered from one of its worst natural disasters.

Location: Grand Forks

GPS coordinates: 47.92472,-97.03111

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:43