Louisiana State Bank Building
| Industry | Commercial real estate / Event venue |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1820 |
| Headquarters | New Orleans , United States |
| Products | Event space ("Latrobe's") |
Louisiana State Bank Building is a notable historic commercial structure situated at the intersection of Royal and Conti Streets within the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. Constructed in 1820, this edifice represents the final architectural endeavor of the distinguished architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe, who succumbed to yellow fever in New Orleans prior to the building's completion. Commonly referred to as the Manheim Galleries building due to a long-term occupant, it currently functions as "Latrobe's," an event space. The building received recognition as a National Historic Landmark in 1983.
Description and history
Positioned just west of Jackson Square at the junction of Royal and Conti Streets, this two-story construction showcases brick walls covered with stucco and is topped by a low-pitched hipped roof encircled by a parapet. The first floor, which is taller, features rounded blinds above windows and doorways, a recessed primary entrance, and wrought iron balconies along both facades facing the streets.
The Louisiana State Bank, founded in 1818 as the inaugural bank following Louisiana’s admission as a state, commissioned Benjamin Henry Latrobe—renowned for projects such as the Baltimore Basilica—to design its building. Although details about the initial design competition remain unclear, Latrobe was awarded the commission. He passed away in New Orleans in 1820; construction concluded in 1822 with expenses totaling $55,000. Throughout its history, the building has accommodated various commercial uses, notably serving as home to the Manheim Gallery antique shop for much of the twentieth century. During Manheim’s occupancy, a roof was installed linking the main structure with its service wing, thereby enclosing what was formerly an exterior courtyard. As of 2014, it operates under the name Latrobe's on Royal, functioning as a venue for weddings and other events.
See also
- List of National Historic Landmarks in Louisiana
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Orleans Parish, Louisiana
References
- National Historic Landmarks in Louisiana
- French Quarter
- Commercial buildings completed in 1820
- Benjamin Henry Latrobe buildings and structures
- Bank buildings on the National Register of Historic Places in Louisiana
- National Register of Historic Places in New Orleans
- Individually listed contributing properties to historic districts on the National Register in Louisiana
- 1820 establishments in Louisiana