This National Historic Landmark was the final building designed by famed American Architect, Benjamin Latrobe, designer of the United States capital building. Latrobe died in New Orleans from Yellow Fever prior to the building's completion in 1822.

The structure, built in the the classic French colonial style, housed the first state Bank of Louisiana after the territory became a state in 1818. The owners of the bank held a design contest for the contract and Benjamin Latrobe's classical yet functional entry won the bid.

The building is constructed completely of brick and cypress with a stucco covering. This provided added security from both fire and theft for the banks owners. Its location at the corner of Conti and Royal street placed it at the heart of the early New Orleans financial district.

The Louisiana State Bank occupied the building until 1867. Various commercial entities utilized the building throughout the early 20th century including the Bernard Manheim Antique Gallery.