Exploring an abandoned century old bank in Chicago

Opened in Chicago during the 1920s as the Pioneer State Bank, this historic abandoned bank still features the beautiful 4-story lobby with Roman columns and white marble that once earned it the title of “Chicago’s Most Beautiful Bank.” After nearly 100 years, does this architectural gem still live up to its former grandeur?

#abandonedplaces #abandonedchicago #urbanexploration

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[artofexp]

As of August 2021 the bank is no longer abandoned and is currently under renovation. It will be turned into a Latino Heritage Center.

[Damianplaza]

I use to work across the street at YSP in 1997. I would come here to cash my check every two weeks but knew all the tellers and diagram of the bank. I pass here every once in a while but feel bad at the disrepair. Maybe re-use the building like a Walgreens or another type of store would be good? Such a shame. Thanks for posting this.

[rizrizobiz]

North n Pulaski across from Juantitan burritos. Always wondered what the inside looked when I was a kid roaming that neighborhood in the late 70s. Thanks for the memories.

[jmvoss]

I worked at the bank in a Senior role until we sold it to Banco Popular. Banco decided to move their headquarters closer to O'Hare, selling the building to an investor, and building a smaller branch on the northeast corner of North and Pulaski. I believe the First Midwest bought that branch and others later from Banco. Unfortunately, the new owner of the building was never able to do what it wanted with the building as I understand. I can only assume that the owner abandoned the building due to the high cost of maintenance and security that was required. The building itself was a historical gem ... and we took magnificent care of the building, which was under my supervision. It pains me to see what has happened to it, especially in the lower-level vault which was not shown in this video, but I guess it was to be expected when left without proper attention. Happy to answer any questions.

[artofexp]

Near the end when the elevator door opens someone or something bangs really hard twice from the underground (and flooded) vault.

[Mprator]

I live nearby and pass this place often, it's shocking such a big, beautiful building has been empty for so long.

[jameswoods]

Vandals are so stupid, what was the point in them doing all that damage... SMH..

[craigkdillon]

What looks like metallic trim around the teller windows was probably part of an alarm system.
Windows would often have silver or gold looking trim, about 3/8" wide, made of metal, and attached to an alarm system.
Anyone breaking the window, would trip the alarm.

[NEEKZ]

U got sum balls my man...nice explore! #subbed

[VQRic]

Did u have too climb the roof thru the back in the alley?

[StevenTorrey]

We think these buildings, these places will last forever....

[redhammer]

God that would make such a sick house, wonder how much the place is listed for. Also why didnt you explore upstairs?

[michaelbabella]

Was Geraldo there for this "opening" too?

[hasansheikh]

How did you get inside? It was all locked up good

[johnzarem]

my first bank. learned a lesson as a kid, they ripped me off. moved from the west side when it got dicey, went back to get $$$$ years later, most of it was gone, deductions for Dormant Account

[suzyqualcast]

The CARE employed when constructing buildings for public access. To this 🇬🇧 viewer it reminds, slightly, of Grand Central Station, a bit.

[trentburtch]

Can I visit this it would be a 4 hour drive

[conorcuomo]

My ex girlfriend dad did signS for that bank

[danypro]

Can you share the location? I’m willing to trade

[ubroberts]

Everyone knows what type of graffiti this is- so does YouTube. They censored my first comment.