133 Marion Avenue - Merchant’s Bank

 

In 1913 the Merchant's Bank was erected and later changed the name to First National Bank.  After its failure in 1931 during the Great Depression, it was occupied as a medical office for many years by Dr. Walter Clement*.  In the late 1980's it was remodeled for a private home and later it was reconverted for office use.  In addition to its neoclassical columns and faux pediment facade the original vault and marble bank lobby remain intact.  The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places #8CH230.  

*Dr Clement championed and was one of the founders of the first hospital in Punta Gorda.  A 22 bed hospital opened in August 1947. He was president of the Rotary and of the SW Florida Medical Association. 

408 Tamiami Trail

The original ice plant was built on this site in the 1890s. This brick building pictured was built in 1913 for ice storage and expanded in 1926. It measures 41 ' x 41 ' and has brick walls 21 inches thick lined with six inches of cork insulation.  During it's day this plant played a significant role in the success of both the fishing and railroad industries in Punta Gorda from 1913-1939. This facility allowed fish to be kept fresh and shipped to northern markets. It also was fitted to deliver electricity for city residences, and was later purchased by Florida Power and Light. It served as a ice and power facility until the 1960s and then for a period of time was a furniture store.  The structure received severe damage from Hurricane Charley in 2004 and after rehabilitation currently houses two restaurants and offices.  The Punta Gorda Ice Plant is listed on the National Register of Historic Places #8CH447.