The Riverbank’s Story
A behind the scenes look at the rehabilitation taking place at one of New London’s Bangor's most iconic blocks. Expected to be completed in late 2022, The Riverbank is the historic renovation of three buildings focused on preserving key features of the original late 1800s and early 1900s designs including the exposed brick, hardwood floors, windows, and commercial spaces.
The Montgomery Ward Building showcases an eclectic mix of Classical Revival style with glazed terra cotta pilasters characteristic of the Art Deco style. The façade is topped with an ornate terra cotta cornice featuring the Montgomery Ward Company's signature "Spirit of Progress" mural in bas-relief below a decorative parapet.
The Arnold Rudd Company Store located at 133 Bank Street was built in 1886 and expanded in the 1920s to its current size. The Arnold Rudd building was originally constructed as a three-story, utilitarian commercial building by Arnold Rudd for his wholesale flour, feed and grain business in the Classical Revival style.
The combined Riverbank building was redeveloped in accordance with the Connecticut State Historic Preservation Department and the National Park Service to become a modern mixed-use property. Through this effort, The Riverbank has turned the lights back on in these historic treasures.
