THIS WEEK'S WINNER:

Vicky Creason of Excelsior Springs

THIS WEEK'S PRIZE:

$15.00 Gift Certificate for a Meal plus a Bottle of Wine ($25 value) from Ventana Gourmet Grill

LOOK FOR NEXT CONTEST IN FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 ISSUE.

Clay County State Bank, 1906-1968
Home of the Excelsior Springs Museum & Archives





Standing on what was originally the Excelsior Hotel grounds (Excelsior Springs first hotel), the bank was constructed of Bedford stone and was known as one of the most artistic bank buildings in Missouri. The Clay County State Bank building was designed in 1905 by Louis Curtiss, a noted Kansas City architect. It was completed in 1906 at a cost of $25,000 and operated as a bank building until 1968, when the Clay County State Bank built a new structure.

The building was expanded in 1918, but the appearance of the west elevation remains identical, according to historic photographs. The paintings on the upper walls of the interior were apparently added during this remodeling. The painting on the south wall, which is a copy of "The Gleaners", and "The Angelus" on the north wall are considered to be invaluable. The Clay County State Bank was founded by William Stone Woods. In 1932, W.T. Kemper Sr. and his sons purchased controlling interests in the bank. It is the bank where Frank James is known to have made “deposits” instead of “withdrawals.” The bank is an important example of the work of Louis Curtiss, in spite of alterations.

A campaign was begun in 2002 to restore much of what has been altered back to the original design, particularly in the elaborate interior decorative elements -- a hallmark of Curtiss's style. The additions themselves have achieved their own significance over time as well.

The aging Museum roof began to leak, damaging original ceiling and endangering display and storage areas. The Museum operates on volunteer labor only with donations from the community. The roof replacement cost is $26,000 dollars and the Museum has taken on a campaign to raise money for this immediate need. To contribute to the "Save the Roof" campaign, please contact the Museum at 816-630-0101 or online at www.esmuseum.org.