HANLONTOWN, IA – A historic Hanlontown bank will soon become a museum thanks to the Worth County Historical Society.

Friday, March 02, 2001

HANLONTOWN, IA – A historic Hanlontown bank will soon become a museum thanks to the Worth County Historical Society.

The bank, formerly Citizens Savings Bank, was the oldest continually operating bank in Worth County until it closed in September, said Director Bev Madsen. It was one of the only area banks to survive the depression.

&uot;It’s not just significant because of its history,&uot; said Madsen. &uot;It also has some architectural importance.&uot;

Madsen said the exterior of the building combines elements from a variety of architectural styles. The structure has a predominantly Classical Italian Renaissance design. A closer look reveals elements of other styles including Greek Revival and Art Deco. The interior is done in the Prairie School style, and abounds with oak woodwork, stained glass, and marble.

According to Madsen, the building was designed by Einar O. Broaten and constructed in 1919. Broaten is credited, wholly or in part, with the design of several of the lesser-known Prairie School homes in Mason City. Three of his other buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Ownership of the building by the historical society will allow visitors the opportunity to view this architect’s interpretation of the Prairie School style.

The bank operated under the name &uot;Citizens Savings Bank&uot; until Sept. 1, 1981. It continued operating under various names through the 1990s.

Madsen said the interior of the bank will be restored to its original decor with period fixtures. Then it will be converted into a museum focusing on Hanlontown and the surrounding area.