Riggs Bank: A Landmark Case of Classical Revival

Boasting what was determined to be one of the best examples of Classical Revival architecture in the DC area, the Riggs Bank building at 1503 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW became a hallmark of the design style that characterized banking halls in the mid-to-late 1800s. It was officially declared a landmark by the Joint Committee on Landmarks in the 1960s. Soon after, in 1973, this building was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Though the Riggs Bank building was mainly landmarked due to its architectural style and proximity to the White House and US Treasury building, its interior space has much to offer as a site deeply enriched with its own unique history. 

Landmarks are an important way for our national and local communities to identify and protect historically significant properties. Landmarking properties allows the government to better locate and protect key spaces so that they may be preserved for future generations. Buildings are selected as landmarks for their ability to illustrate and narrate American heritage. Though often historic buildings, archaeological sites, historic districts, and other non-building structures may be deemed nationally significant and landmarked as well. 

Located across from the US Treasury Department building in Washington, DC's Lafayette Square neighborhood, the Riggs Bank building plays a central role in the aesthetic appearance of the Fifteenth Street Financial Historic District. With its stately, iconic columned portico and textbook example of the refined Classical Revival style (originally the style suggested for adoption across the city by a 1902 urban design commission), the Joint Committee on Landmarks found that the building “contribute[d] to the cultural heritage and visual beauty of the District of Columbia.” 

Recognizable by domed or pedimented roofs, tall columns, and symmetrical forms, neoclassical architecture is thought to convey a sense of power and stateliness, which may explain the popularity of the style in bank building design. Solidity, strength and security, conveyed by the imposing nature of neoclassical design, are admirable qualities in a banking institution accepting deposits of clients’ money. In 1902, when Senator James McMillan’s Commission presented its plan for improving the appearance and layout of Washington, DC, it relied on this neoclassical styling to convey a sense of grandeur to those who visited the city. Though McMillan’s plan was not formally adopted, it was slowly implemented by future government officials. The Supreme Court Building, completed in 1935, is another example of this architectural style and of the influence McMillan would have on the future design of the city. 

While reviewing the proposal to landmark the Riggs Bank building, the Joint Committee provided cited the building’s location across from the US Department of the Treasury as being particularly compelling justification. Riggs Bank was deeply connected to the US Treasury from the start, supporting efforts to finance American ventures, such as the Alaska Purchase. Riggs carved out a place for itself in history as a financial institution supporting the expansion (and on occasion the wars) of the United States.

The story of 1503-1505 Pennsylvania Avenue continues to be written as the home to the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream. The Center has preserved these landmarked structures, giving close attention to restoring the bank halls to their stunning past selves. Visitors will get a glimpse at how the buildings' architecture functioned to create a unique experience for those who banked here. Visitors will also engage with these spaces through unique programs and exhibits, providing inspiration and promoting innovation.