Mechanics Savings Bank

Mitchell, who was an African American, also owned and edited the Richmond Planet.

[1] The bank's Clay Street and Third building was designed by architect Carl Ruehrmund[2] and constructed in 1910.

[3] The bank was the chief depository of the Knights of Pythias.

At the time of its failure in 1922, the bank had deposits totaling approximately $500,000.

[4] In 1930, the Clay Street Building was purchased by the Southern Aid and Insurance Company.

Mechanics Savings Bank building in the 1970s after it had become home for the Southern Aid and Insurance Company
Photograph of Mechanics Savings Bank president John Mitchell Jr. published in the Richmond Planet
Mechanics Savings Bank Board of Directors printed in 1902. John Mitchell Jr. is fourth from the left in the front row