First National Bank Building (Denver, Colorado)
| Company type | Bank (defunct) |
|---|---|
| Industry | Banking and finance |
| Founded | 1865 |
| Defunct | 1958 |
| Fate | Merged with International Trust Company |
| Headquarters | Denver , United States |
Key people | John Evans (president from 1928) |
The First National Bank Building, constructed in 1911 to serve as the main office for the First National Bank of Denver, stands at the intersection of 17th and Stout Streets. Presently functioning as the Magnolia Hotel, this historic structure was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1996 and later included within the Downtown Denver Historic District in 2000.
First National Bank
Operating from 1865 until its merger in 1958, the First National Bank of Denver played a significant role in the city's financial sector. John Evans, the grandson of Territorial Governor John Evans, assumed the presidency in 1928. During his tenure, the bank combined with the International Trust Company in 1958, uniting their financial services under his guidance.
Construction
Completed in 1911, the First National Bank building was Denver's inaugural high-rise on 17th Street, rising thirteen stories. Chicago architect Harry W.J. Edbrooke designed the structure, showcasing a façade adorned with terra cotta and stone detailing.
History
The building served as headquarters for First National Bank until 1958. During the 1960s, its exterior underwent modernization through the addition of decorative concrete elements. From 1962 to 1981, American National Bank occupied the premises. Due to outdated infrastructure and neglect, the building remained unoccupied throughout the 1980s.
In 1993, within the framework of the Downtown Urban Renewal Area, a $19.5 million investment facilitated a transformation of the property into Holtze Executive Place extended stay hotel, under ownership of Steve Holtze. This renovation restored the original façade by removing concrete coverings and upgraded interior spaces. The hotel commenced operations in August 1995, featuring 246 guest rooms alongside 6,000 square feet allocated for retail use.
Currently known as the Magnolia Hotel, this establishment is part of a Denver-based chain specializing in downtown properties housed within refurbished historic buildings. A $7 million refurbishment completed in July 2008 enhanced guest rooms and interior finishes under the Magnolia brand identity.