Originally known as the First State Bank of Chester, this historic building is one of only two structures in Liberty County listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Founded by C.M. Atkins in 1909, the bank opened in 1910 in a striking brick building—the most extravagant in town at the time. It served the area’s thriving agricultural community during the homestead boom but, like many small banks in Montana, closed in 1920 as crops failed and settlers moved on.

Despite its closure, the building remained an enduring part of the community, repurposed for various functions over the years. It has housed a residence, rooming house, bakery, pool hall, barbershop, hospital, and insurance and law offices. While the second-story turret was removed in the 1950s for safety reasons, much of the building’s historic character remains. The iconic columns, swan-neck brackets, gracefully curved steps, original oak doors, pressed metal ceilings, woodwork, and even the original bank vault are still intact, preserving its architectural charm.

Metal Pressed Ceilings

In addition to the vault being carefully preserved over time, the original ceiling of the bank has also remained intact to this day, serving as a testament to the building’s rich history. These intricately designed pressed metal ceilings showcase the architectural craftsmanship of the past, offering a glimpse into the era in which the bank was constructed. Their enduring presence not only adds to the historical charm of the building but also serves as a daily reminder of its unique and storied past.