History – Preservation Plaza was built in 1922 and for many years was known as the Blount National Bank building. Located prom-inently in historic Down-town Maryville on Broadway Avenue with views overlooking the community and the Smoky Mountains.
Many important decisions shaping Maryville and the region were made within these walls. In the early 1970’s, the property was expanded and a new banking facility was added. In addition to the additional square feet, the tower was covered with a new aluminum skin. While sleek and perhaps modern in
appearance, the views from inside were now obscured. In the early 80’s, bank officers decided to renovate the top floor of the building.
To better serve their customers, the bank added a private dining room, public meeting room, lounge, and a new extensive boardroom. All of these areas were served by a new kitchen and prep area. Many of today’s leaders remember receiving an invitation to dine in the bank’s dining room. Over the years, how banks conducted business changed as did Downtown Maryville.