The Bank of America Building (1926) (originally the
Bank of Italy), San Jose's first "skyscraper," built by H. A. Minton.
The bank was featured in Architect and Engineering Record of California
as one of the first earthquake-proof constructions in the area. The Bank of
America has long been a "landmark" building, at 13 stories plus tower
is located in the heart of downtown San Jose.
Amadeo Peter Giannini, founder of the Bank of Italy-now the
Bank of America-was born at 79 North Market Street on May 6, 1870. Perhaps San
Jose's most famous native, Giannini is considered by many to be the greatest
figure in American banking. A liberal in a conservative field, he
revolutionized and humanized banking practices, creating the world's largest
and most powerful branch-banking system while maintaining his commitment to the
ideal of equal treatment and opportunity for all people.