Twelve Stories of History

Located at 19 South Sixth Street, stands what was once the tallest building between Indianapolis and St. Louis. The Sycamore Building was constructed in 1921 by the Hoggson Brothers of New York City. The building started off as a bank named Citizens Trust Company. The construction of the building cost $500,000 and features 12 floors. While driving on Wabash Avenue, I have past this building several times with the intention of stopping and taking a look. Now, I am very grateful that I did. Upon walking in the front entrance on the Sycamore Building, I made my way toward the front office. Inside, I spotted a rather large, circular vault. One of the women working in the office informed me about the Sycamore Building and its roots as a bank. She told me that it is the only building in Terre Haute that possesses a round vault. Then, I visited the basement, where I was informed about another vault down there that is now used as a storage closet. After the brief tour, I requested entrance to the top floor. The building is now used to office many lawyers, so a phone call was required before I made my ascent to the top floor. After being granted permission, I made my way to the up to the 12th floor. Although this floor was a law office, I was allowed to experience the view from the waiting room window. One window faced west while the other window faced south. Looking out, I got a much better sense of the history of Terre Haute. Through both windows, one can see many buildings and steeples. Homes and stores, stretched out until the influence of Terre Haute gives way to a vast treeline and finally breaks into the horizon.