Banner Elk Bank (c. 1919)

As you eye the display of bagels at Einstein Bros. Bagels, be sure to look to your right where you can still see the original vault from the Banner Elk Bank. The Banner Elk Bank opened in 1919 though the investment of six local men. The original documents of incorporation and the charter issued by the North Carolina Secretary of State are displayed in the parlor of the Banner House Museum. The Banner Elk Bank became North Carolina National Bank which became Nations Bank which became Bank of America. While it was NCNB, the bank moved into a stand-alone building at the front of the Town Hall complex further down the road in 1986. Lees-McRae College renovated the building in 2017 in order to expand its dining offerings. Turn right down the side street between the Banner Elk Bank and RO Banner Store. As you walk along the brick sidewalk, you may notice the Post Office in front of you, although the next tour stop is the two-story white house across the street now operating as "Banner Elk Olive Oil and Balsamics." As with other stops, it is best viewed from this side of the street.