State Bank of Ladysmith
| Company type | Bank |
|---|---|
| Industry | Banking |
| Founded | 1903 |
| Defunct | 1927 |
| Headquarters | Ladysmith , United States |
| Products | Banking services |
The State Bank of Ladysmith is a notable historic banking facility located at 102 W. 2nd Street in Ladysmith, Wisconsin. Erected in 1912 to serve as the permanent headquarters for the State Bank of Ladysmith, this two-story edifice is distinguished by its granite facade and Neoclassical style. It is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.
History
Established in 1903 during a period of economic expansion fueled by a newly established lumber mill, the State Bank of Ladysmith commissioned the construction of its dedicated building in 1912. The bank occupied the ground floor, while the upper level was rented out as office space—initially to lumber enterprises, and subsequently primarily to legal and medical professionals. At the time, local press praised it as "the finest business structure in the city." Following the closure of the State Bank, Pioneer Bank took over the location from 1927 until 1964. This building was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places on January 17, 1980.
Architecture
Crafted under the direction of W.E. Maddux contractors, this Neoclassical building features two exterior walls facing the street that are clad in ashlar-cut red granite sourced from Lohrville. Due to a labor strike at the quarry, the stonework was completed onsite. The main entrance is highlighted by a portico supported by polished granite columns, with dentil molding and a balcony positioned above; originally, an ornamental carved panel embellished the doorway but has since been removed. The cornice exhibits dentillation and is topped with a parapet running along the roof edge.