First National Bank (Mead & Hunt photo, 2006)

First National Bank interior (Mead & Hunt photo, 2006)

First National Bank
113 North Main Street, Oregon, Dane County
Date of construction: 1914

The First National Bank operated in the Village of Oregon from c.1914 through 1929. It was one of two banks in Oregon prior to Great Depression. Like many banks across the nation, the First National Bank closed due to the economic impact of the stock market crash. Although it did not reopen after the financial recovery of the village and nation, the building continued to house commercial enterprises.

The bank represents the only Neoclassical Revival commercial building in Oregon. The Neoclassical Revival style became popular nationally with the prevalence of classically inspired buildings in the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893 in Chicago. In Wisconsin this style was popular from 1895 to 1935 for public and institutional buildings, as well as commercial structures, especially banks. Characteristic architectural details include its cornice, frieze, pilasters, and pediment above the front entrance. The First National Bank is a particularly good small scale representation of the style and is typical of small community banks in Wisconsin.

The building is privately owned. Please respect the rights of the owner.