Historic Structure: Developer David Waldman is seen in front of the one-time Westport Bank & Trust Co. building after announcing he had purchased it in November 2004. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com file photoBy Jayde Levesque
The former Westport Bank & Trust Co. building may be placed on the National Register of Historic Places this spring.
The register is a program through the National Park Service in Washington dedicated to recognizing historic buildings and helping maintain them.
Purchased in November 2004 for $4.2 million by Westport’s David Adam Realty, the building sits on the corner of Post Road East and Church Lane in the downtown area.
It was built in 1924 and most recently was owned by Hudson United Bank.
“We thought it was a well positioned property in a market we were very familiar with,” said David Waldman, of David Adam Realty.
Although it is already designated as historic in Westport, Waldman applied for national recognition, which is in the final stages.
“We followed all the standards to restore and clean the building to bring it up to date,” said Waldman.
He also preserved some lobby murals of Westport scenes by artist Robert Lambdin dating to the 1930s.
One called “Hotel Square” depicts the neighboring old Westport Hotel, now occupied by the Westport/Weston Family Y.
Another called “Shipping on the Saugatuck,” brings to life the bustling early 19th century activity at Jesup Wharf, the present site of Taylor Place and a municipal parking lot.
In order for the structure to remain on both the Westport and national historic inventory any restoration to the building must maintain its original design.
The building currently houses the retail store Patagonia, and a lower level is being renovated for a restaurant. Waldman has his office on the upper floor.
If the state Historic Preservation Office concludes the building meets the requirements of the register, the building will qualify for rehabilitation tax credits.
It will also qualify for federal grants should the owners continue restoration.
If there are no problems, the former bank will officially be listed on the national register in April, Waldman said.
