Acerca de
The M Building
Property Description
The Property, called The “M”, was constructed in 1964. A unique structure considered a landmark in center city Casper, consists of a two-story building with precast concrete winged central core, with a full basement.
The distinctive architecture and design of the property makes it stand out from its surroundings. Its iconic 177’ steel pylon tower is visible from all directions in the Casper metro area.
History
The building’s designers were Charles Deaton, Architect of Denver, CO in association with Marvin Knedler, Architect of Denver, CO and J. Robert Bence, Architect of Casper, WY. The original design included specifically crafted plastic louvers (squiggle) for baffling overhead light. This installation was the first of its kind in the United States. The unique 9 leaf blades create a rotunda that is 94’ in outer diameter and 86’ inside diameter. Each blade weighs 21 tons. The building includes vaults and incinerator rooms reflecting its original purpose as a bank. Its 177’ tower has served as a time and temperature sign.
About the
Architect:
Charles
Deaton
Timeline
Completion in 1964
Built in 1964 for the Wyoming National Bank, it is still described as Casper's most unique architecture. According to the Society of Architectural Historians, each of the huge 17 “leaf” pieces were cast in concrete on site using large wooden molds. You can learn all about the architecture here.
Drive-up Teller Booths
Tower Construction 1968
Dan Cepeda, Oil City
Wyoming National Bank exchanged hands several times during the 1980s and 1990s until it was bought by Wells Fargo Bank in the mid 1990s.
The 177 foot tower was constructed in 1968 by Harold Engstrom, rumored to be inspired by the Seattle Space Needle. It originally held an electronic sign featuring the date, time, and temperature but was removed in the early 90s after it's reliability proved problematic.
The building was operated by Wells Fargo Bank for more than 20 years before it went back on the market again.
In 2019 it was purchased by Tri Opportunity Investment Group. It has since been undergoing extensive interior renovations while preserving its historic uniqueness. The areas surrounding the rotunda serve as various medical offices. The rotunda has been converted into a high-end event venue including two water features.
Thank you to our source providers for helping us share Casper History:
US Bank Locations
Society of Architectural Historians
Oil City News
High Shrink
Renovation
Watch the video to see before and after footage of our building and office renovations.
A sneak peak at the Rotunda undergoing renovation.
Renovations complete October 2022
Listen to designer and owner, Diane McGinley, discuss the history and renovations of The M Building.