Huntingdon FirstBank to be Razed, Rebuilt

HUNTINGDON (August 18) — The main office of FirstBank, the oldest bank and longest-running business on the Court Square, will receive a major upgrade as the existing building is razed and a new one constructed.

Market President Braden Maddox told The Banner the demolition is expected to occur in the next six months, and the new bank is anticipated to open in the fall of next year.

FirstBank is in the process of allowing customers to retrieve property from safety deposit boxes in the building.

The office, located at 19685 E. Main Street, closed last fall for long-overdue renovations. However, the architects and construction teams discovered significant structural damage that was beyond safe repair and removal was determined the best course of action.

As stated in a letter to bank customers, "This decision was not made lightly. At FirstBank, we're deeply committed to the growth and vitality of downtown Huntingdon. We understand the historical and cultural importance of the original building and have worked closely with the Mayor's Office and other city leaders to ensure the new design honors that legacy. We also took your input to heart to help shape the vision for the new space."

Customers were also provided a rendering of the new building, which the company says "blends historic charm with modern design."

Maddox said the architects considered design elements of other buildings on the square.

The bank originated as the Bank of Huntingdon in 1887 in the building that is now Maddox Law Office. A merger with Farmer's State Bank moved the bank into the Johnson Building, where it currently sits.

Bank of Huntingdon merged with FirstBank in 2001.

During the project, customers will continue to be served at the drive-thru locations at 123 Second Avenue N. and 20340 E. Main Street.

There is also a temporary service location at the FirstBank Activities Building at 108 Second Avenue for service on new and existing accounts, debit card printing and loan applications.

Maddox said, "As an employee, and as someone who lives in Huntingdon, the commitment from FirstBank to a project of this size and nature shows how committed [the company is] to Huntingdon and the people here.”