Merchants National Bank

Step Inside a Jewel Box

The Merchants National Bank building in Grinnell, Iowa, is one of the eight Midwestern “jewel-box” banks designed by Louis Sullivan, legendary American architect and mentor of Frank Lloyd Wright. Iowa has two additional banks in Cedar Rapids & Algona and the remaining 5 banks can be found in Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. 

The phrase “jewel-box” was coined by Sullivan himself to convey the simplicity of the brick structure, which created the impression of a jewelry box while underscoring the security of those items stored inside. But it is not the simplicity of this building that draws visitors from around the world. It is Sullivan’s unparalleled ornamentation – from the awe-inspiring stained glass windows to the majestic griffins standing guard at the entrance to the geometric/organic explosion of terra-cotta that dominates the façade – that has made the building an international attraction.

The Gems in the Jewel Box

The Merchants National Bank building has been recognized as a treasure by architects, historians and tourists since its construction in 1914 and has been a National Historic Landmark since 1976. During your visit, enjoy the exquisite detail of each gem in this jewel-box:

• Terra-cotta portal, the most recognizable feature of the building
• Spectacular rose window with its maze of geometric and organic shapes
• Monumental stained-glass east windows, 15 feet high by 40 feet wide
• Elaborate glass mosaic around clock, designed by renowned artist Louis Millet
• Organic terra-cotta interior ornament
• Hand-carved wooden check desk
• Pink Tennessee marble floors

The Father of Modern American Architecture

Louis H. Sullivan’s impact on America’s landscape cannot be understated and he continues to influence architects today. Sullivan developed a style beginning in the 1880s that was uniquely American, a style that also enabled the evolution of the steel-framed skyscraper. He designed some of the greatest American buildings of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They include Chicago’s Auditorium Building, Stock Exchange and Schlesinger & Mayer Department Store, as well as the Wainwright Building in St. Louis. 

However, it was Sullivan’s credo “form ever follows function” that continues to influence architects. His belief that a building’s purpose should determine its look inspired the development of the Prairie School of Architecture and its creator, Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright worked for Sullivan from 1887-1893 and referred to Sullivan as his “LieberMeister” (master).

The Bank Today

Today, the owner and steward of the bank is Wells Fargo, which occupies the 1974 addition. The jewel-box portion of the bank is home to the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau. The building hosts thousands of visitors from around the world who come to appreciate the bank’s architectural and historical significance.A brief video tour of the building is available on the Chamber’s Youtube channel.

The bank is typically open for visitors Monday-Friday during Chamber business hours but guests are encouraged to call and confirm availability. Weekend hours are available by request, call 641-236-6555 to inquire. Group tours are welcome!