Farmers' and Exchange Bank, National Historic Landmark bank building in East Bay Street, Charleston, United States
The Farmers' and Exchange Bank is a financial building on East Bay Street in Charleston featuring Moorish Revival design elements. Its facade displays three bays with tall arched openings and circular windows made of multicolored brownstone and brick.
The structure was completed in 1854 by Charleston architects Edward Jones and Francis Lee, drawing inspiration from Washington Irving's illustrations of the Alhambra. A significant restoration occurred in 1970, funded by a substantial donation from banker Hugh Lane Sr.
The directors chose Moorish Revival style to stand out from conventional banking institutions in the city during the 1850s. This architectural choice helped the bank project an image of sophistication and distinction.
The building is located on East Bay Street in downtown Charleston and is easily accessible on foot. As an active financial institution, visiting the interior may be restricted, so check availability in advance before planning a visit.
The banking room features arcaded walls with decorative plasterwork and a coffered ceiling, making it a rare example of Moorish Revival financial architecture. This elaborate interior design makes it distinctive among banking buildings of its era in the region.
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