9. Former Seaman’s Bank for Savings at 74 Wall Street

The headquarters of the former Seaman’s Bank for Savings at 74 Wall Street was built in 1926, featuring an arched entrance and a facade of nautical references, including ships, mermaids, and sea horses. The history of the bank itself dates to 1839, founded as a means to encourage savings amongst mariners. The bank collapsed in 1990, following nearly a decade of tough financial losses, and was taken over by Chase Bank after it fell under Federal government regulation. The cornerstone is still extant on the building with the words: Seaman’s Bank for Savings 1829-1926.

The site itself has an even longer, albeit darker, connection to maritime history as the site of New York City’s slave market. The building itself appears to have been dark for quiet some time, but you can see what the interior looked like in historic photos at the Library of Congress.