Citizens National Bank (1886)
Citizen's National Bank Building
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Detailed stonework at entrywaySitting prominently at the corner of Main and Court Streets just south of the courthouse, this building, constructed between 1886 and 1889, is one of the most impressive commercial structures in Winchester. The rusticated stonework, carved medallion faces, decorated gables and elegant ironwork distinguish the Citizen's National Bank from its neighbors.
The Winchester Historic Preservation Commission takes its logo from the medallion faces seen on the arch over the entrance representing Lizzie Winn, daughter of Col. R.N. Winn and Mary Miller, daughter of Dr. Washington Miller, president of the bank.
Dr. Washington Miller was born in Clark County, July 22, 1839. He was educated in the common schools of Clark County and at Georgetown College, and he attended medical lectures at the University of Louisville where he graduated in 1865. He practiced medicine for only one year before engaging in the banking business. Dr. Miller owned 1,600 acres of fine land and was extensively engaged in raising shorthorn cattle.
Originally, the building had an impressive turret at the corner, providing magnificent views of the courthouse and the entire downtown area, and helping to define the historic character of Winchester's streetscape. In the 1990s, citing structural failure, the owner removed the turret and the upper floor of the building. From a preservation perspective, this offers many lessons. Even some of the most beloved landmarks of our history are not safe from destruction.
While Winchester is lucky that portions of the Bank do survive, the existing structure no longer fully conveys the building's, and thus the people of Winchester's, history. Vigilant maintenance of historic buildings that are in good condition, and careful assessment of those that are run down, can help prevent future loss of valuable historic fabric from the downtown area.
The Winchester HPC works to preserve the city's historic, cultural, and economic heritage through the administration of community standards. Read more...
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