Free Santa Photos Inside Historic Banking Center

By Audrey Esther, News9.com INsite Team

The First National Center at 120 N. Robinson Ave. was once known as the ‘crown jewel' in downtown Oklahoma City. The building's Great Banking Hall is once again open to the public and if you stop in before the holidays you can get a free photo with Santa Claus.

"In light of the holiday it's our thank you and in light of the economy it's something (you) don't have to pay for," said Emily Dobson, senior property manager.

Get a free photo with Santa on Friday December 19th and on Tuesday December 23rd from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Santa sits in a custom-made chair that matches the rich colors inside the historic Great Banking Hall and the 40-foot-tall Christmas tree that towers behind him. The scene is reminiscent of a similar event held years ago.

"The big mission is to bring the building back to its original glory," Dobson said.

The Great Banking Hall was built in 1931 and during that time was a hub of downtown.

"It was a big deal to come down here and get dressed up to go downtown and go to the bank and come in this grand space," Dobson said.

By re-opening the space and inviting the community in, Dobson said the property owners hope to gain public input as to how to continue with their multimillion dollar renovations.

"Because people have such and emotional attachment to this building we want them to be part of the decision making process," Dobson said.

The winner of the Great Banking Hall contest will be announced later this month. For more information please see the More Links section on this page.