Farmers and Mechanics Savings Bank, Art Deco bank building in downtown Minneapolis, United States.
Farmers and Mechanics Savings Bank is a white limestone structure located in downtown Minneapolis that features sculptured figures of a farmer and mechanic at its entrance. The interior contains a multi-story banking hall with smooth surfaces and curved architectural elements characteristic of Streamline Moderne design.
The building opened in 1942 as a banking facility reflecting post-Depression economic growth in the region. It was later recognized for its architectural merit and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2006.
The building's name reflects its original mission to serve farmers and mechanics as a savings institution. The sculptural figures at the entrance represent these two working groups and their role in the city's economy.
The original banking hall is now part of The Westin hotel lobby and can be viewed during business hours when entering the hotel. The historic vault area has been repurposed and is not generally open to casual visitors unless specific tours are arranged.
The original vault from the banking era was cleverly repurposed as a wine storage facility, preserving its secure construction for an unexpected modern use. This transformation shows how architects adapted the building's character to meet new demands while respecting its historic fabric.
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