National Register Listing

City National Bank Building

a.k.a. Southern National Bank Building; Texas American Building

1001 McKinney Ave., Houston, TX
During the early years of the twentieth century, Houston gained economic maturity with a rapid rise in bank deposits, the full development of its railroads and ship channel, the discovery of nearby oil fields, and a municipal government supportive of progressive and civic growth. By 1930, Houston ranked as the largest city in Texas in population. Federal monies financed the construction of chemical plants and refineries, which then received large government contracts to produce synthetic rubber and other war commodities. The burgeoning growth of City National Bank, represented by the construction of a new building in 1947, reflects the economic prosperity of post-War Houston. The bank played an important role in the stimulation of that economy, making the building eligible under Criterion A for its historical associations with the post-war economy of Houston in the area of economics. Judge James A. Elkins, the bank's president and an important leader in Houston's powerful elite, played an influential role in the development of Houston's booming economy. The City National Bank building is the resource most strongly associated with his role in Houston banking, making it eligible under Criterion B in the area of economics at the local level of significance. Elkins' exceptional significance in the development of high finance in Houston at the foremost level requires the period of significance to be extended to 1956 in order to encompass the full length of occupation of the building by the City National Bank. A formidable influence upon the post-war skyline of Houston and a representation of Alfred Finn's later skyscraper design, the building also is nominated under Criterion C in the area of architecture at the local level of significance.
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Economics

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2000.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture economics
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The state flower of Texas is the bluebonnet. The flower blooms in the spring and is a common sight along the highways and in fields throughout the state.
Texas random facts
Harris County in Texas has a significant history that shaped its growth and importance. Established in 1837, the county was named after John Richardson Harris, founder of the first settlement, Harrisburg. Houston, the county seat, became a prominent commercial and shipping center due to its strategic location and railroads.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, Harris County experienced rapid economic diversification and growth. The discovery of oil in the Spindletop field fueled Houston's emergence as an energy and petrochemical hub. Industries like cotton, lumber, shipping, and manufacturing thrived. NASA's Johnson Space Center further solidified the county's significance in space exploration and technology.

Harris County's demographic diversity is a defining aspect, attracting immigrants from various backgrounds. Houston became a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant culinary scene, dynamic arts community, and diverse festivals, reflecting its multicultural fabric.

Today, Harris County remains an influential economic and cultural center. Its strong economy spans energy, healthcare, technology, and international trade. The county houses renowned medical facilities and research institutions. Despite facing natural disasters, Harris County showcases resilience and implements measures to mitigate their impact.

With its rich history, economic vitality, multiculturalism, and ongoing growth, Harris County continues to shape Texas as a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and innovation.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Harris County, Texas.

  • Pre-19th Century: The region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Atakapa.

  • 1822: Harrisburg, the county's first settlement, is founded by John Richardson Harris, a pioneer and one of the early Texas colonists.

  • 1836: The Battle of San Jacinto, which secured Texas independence from Mexico, took place in present-day Harris County.

  • 1837: Harris County is officially established and named after John Richardson Harris.

  • 19th Century: Houston, the county seat and the largest city in Texas, experiences rapid growth due to its strategic location along Buffalo Bayou and the construction of railroads. The city becomes a major commercial and shipping hub, attracting industries such as cotton, lumber, and oil.

  • 20th Century: The discovery of oil in the nearby Spindletop field and the subsequent growth of the oil industry greatly contribute to Harris County's economic development. Houston becomes an energy and petrochemical center.

  • 1960s-1980s: The space industry plays a crucial role in Harris County's history with the establishment of NASA's Johnson Space Center, where mission control for the Apollo program is located.

  • Today: Harris County continues to be a thriving economic and cultural center. It is home to a diverse population, numerous industries, world-class medical facilities, and renowned cultural institutions.