Shown in its heyday is the First National Bank, as featured in the architecture journal,
The American Architect, in 1921. As reported in the Appleton Post-Crescent last week, these four columns have been put aside for future use. This site, as well as the site of the older bank next to it and the former Hotel Menasha, will be used for a planned six story, 100,000 square foot office tower.
An office building? Razing the Hotel Menasha, the First National Bank and the old bank in one swing of the wrecking ball required the aiding and abetting of the elected city council. Hey boys and girls. All y’all’s predecessors missed that improvement boat back in the 1950s when shoppers stampeded to College Avenue. Next I suppose are the remaining Menasha iconic buildings in the block across the street from the hotel. To paraphrase Mark Twain, “First God created [city councils]; this was for practice. Then He created morons.” Did the Menasha Historical Society fight this move?
ReplyDeleteJames Krahenbuhl
SMHS 1960
The Menasha Landmarks commission tried to save those buildings and were overruled. I don't think the Historical society would have any more luck. What John Bergstrom and his cronies want, they get, be it in Neenah or Menasha.
DeleteI hope the new 6 story office tower (?) complements the architectural magnificence of the McClone building across the street.
DeleteJ. Krahenbuhl
The Historical Society was SILENT - In fact, Nancy Barker promoted the razing of the buildings in favor of the new structure. Shame, Shame.
DeleteThe Landmarks fought it - but was over-ruled by the Council primarily due to some quick maneuvering by the Mayor and Community Development Director to get it on the agenda.