Terre Haute’s historic First National building sees restoration investment
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The historic First National Bank building in Terre Haute will receive a $300,000 facelift thanks to a grant from the Wisconsin-based Jeffris Family Foundation, Indiana Landmarks announced Wednesday.
As part of the deal, Indiana Landmarks will raise $600,000 in matching funds for the project by June 30, 2026. The not-for-profit has already invested over $700,000 to rehab the exterior of the building, including roof replacement, masonry repair and cleaning, installation of a new panel system on the west facade and window and front entry restoration.
The new funding will be used to restore ornamental murals and repair plaster on the ceiling.
“We understand the building’s significance to the community and its critical role in supporting a vibrant downtown. We look forward to working with local partners to identify the highest and best use for this important landmark,” Indiana Landmarks President Marsh Davis said in a news release.
The First Financial Corp. donated the office in 2018 to Indiana Landmarks along with $110,000 to kick off the building’s repairs. At the time, the building needed to be stabilized. First Financial last occupied the building in 1988.
Indiana Landmarks will create an advisory committee of key community representatives and stakeholders who will determine the future of the building. Any future use or sale will retain Indiana Landmarks’ protective covenant on the building.