First National Bank of Brewster
| Company type | Bank (defunct) |
|---|---|
| Industry | Banking |
| Founded | 1875 |
| Defunct | 1964 |
| Headquarters | Brewster, New York , United States |
The First National Bank of Brewster edifice, subsequently referred to as Southeast Town Hall, is located on Main Street (US 6), directly adjacent to the train station in Brewster, New York. Constructed in 1886, this brick building exemplifies the Queen Anne architectural style and currently functions as office space for the Town of Southeast, which encompasses Brewster.
The bank ceased its operations in 1964. Recognized for its architectural integrity and historical importance to the community, the structure was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.
Building
This one-story rectangular brick building is set upon a granite foundation and is topped with a hipped roof clad in slate tiles, featuring an ornamental ridge cap. The principal section includes semicircular windows with double mullions.[1]
A small wing on the north side displays hexagonal slate shingles and a Palladian window within its gable end, while the south side boasts a cross-gable with a louvered oculus. Due to the sloping landscape, there is a basement entrance accessible from the southern elevation. A modest addition on the west side preserves the architectural character of the original structure.[1]
Inside, walls are adorned with natural wood paneling, and ceilings consist of tongue-and-groove wooden boards. The former banking hall is distinguished by a cathedral ceiling highlighted by a brass chandelier featuring six branches.[1]
History
Established in 1875 during a period of rapid post-Civil War development in Brewster and its vicinity, the First National Bank had flourished sufficiently by 1886 to commission this Queen Anne style building. Its design incorporates rounded windows influenced by Richardsonian Romanesque trends popular at that time. Positioned strategically beside the railroad depot, the bank played a pivotal role in financing local economic growth.
Throughout its tenure as a bank, the building remained largely intact except for an addition on its west side constructed in 1950. Following the bank’s closure in 1964, the Town of Southeast promptly adapted the facility to replace its previous Town Hall nearby. The town supervisor and clerk conducted operations here until a new Town Hall was erected along NY 22 north of Brewster. Presently, this historic structure continues to accommodate essential municipal functions such as parking administration, planning, and code enforcement.