“The history and architecture of City National Bank make it one of Galveston’s most distinctive and well-known downtown properties,” states Dwayne Jones, Galveston Historical Foundation’s Executive Director. “GHF is excited about working with this great historic building to bring new life and creative uses to Market Street. We take the stewardship of Galveston’s historic buildings and places very seriously and are creating new ways to experience our fascinating island history all the time.”
In 1907, William L. Moody Jr. founded City National Bank and two years later, purchased the Levy Building, on the corner of Market and 23rd. That location housed banking operations until a new “fire-proof” building, designed by Chicago architects Weary & Alford, opened next door on August 12, 1920. The Moody banking operations were conducted at this location until 1962 and then relocated to the Moody National Bank Building at 2302 Postoffice.
“One of the defining traits of Galveston is its rich architectural history. The City National Bank Building, built by my great-grandfather, is part of that tradition,” said Ross Moody. “I’m proud to gift the building to Galveston Historical Foundation and hope it continues to bring pride and enjoyment to the Galveston community.”
GHF owns or manages more than twenty historic buildings and maritime resources in Galveston including Ashton Villa (1859), the Tall Ship ELISSA (1877), the Gresham House (Bishop’s Palace)(1892), the GH&H Railroad Depot (1904), and more.
ABOUT GALVESTON HISTORICAL FOUNDATION
Galveston Historical Foundation (GHF) merged with the Historical Society of Galveston, formed in 1871, to create a new non-profit entity in 1954 devoted to historic preservation and history in Galveston County. Over the last sixty years, GHF has expanded its mission to cover community redevelopment, historic preservation advocacy, maritime preservation, coastal resiliency, and stewardship of diverse historic properties. GHF embraces an inclusive and broader view of history and architecture that encompasses advancements in environmental and natural sciences. GHF recognizes the intersection of historic buildings and coastal life and conceives of history as an engaging story of individual lives and experiences on Galveston Island from the 19th century to the present day.
City National Bank is one of the most beautiful interior spaces in Galveston. I am thrilled that it will be protected by GHF’s excellent stewardship
That is such wonderful news. I hope we can have a way to tour, at least on the first floor of the bank.
The Gresham House is not the Bishop’s Palace. In the list of properties it is confusing the way it is listed.
The Bishop’s Palace was built by Col. Gresham for his family and completed in 1892. It became the Bishop’s Palace much later when it was placed in the care of the diocese and inhabited by the Bishop. All the changes make it hard to keep the properties straight.
This is great news! I love this particular building and I know the Foundation will take great care of it and make the best use of this beautiful historic property.
Are there tours if so when?
This property is still under rehab. We look forward to showing it off when we can!