Old Bank District, Los Angeles, California
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A part of the Historic Core of Los Angeles, the Old Bank District is a group of early 20th century commercial buildings, many of which have been converted to residential (loft) use. The heart of the Old Bank District is at 4th and Main Streets, where Pete's Cafe serves as an important community gathering spot.
In the 20th century, this area (and Spring Street, in particular) was the financial center of Los Angeles, often referred to as the "Wall Street of the West." It declined after World War II. Beginning in the late 1990s, the Old Bank Distrct became the focal point for another concerted effort to create a livable urban residential community. These efforts were and are led by developer Tom Gilmore, who began with 3 loft conversions (the Hellman, the Continental and the San Fernando buildings). His community-building efforts have slowly become successful, and his developments include the renovation of St. Vibiana's Cathedral into a historically preserved events venue, the conversion of the Rowan building into condominiums, continued use of the Farmers and Merchants Bank for special events and filming, and several other community-building endeavors (including management of the Los Angeles Theater Center).