After signs of deterioration began to show themselves, Cantwell's grand niece, W. B. Edmundson, deeded the building over to the City of Decatur in 1933.

Being one of only a handful of local buildings to survive the destruction of the American Civil War, and after going through the many changes over the years, the Old State Bank has become a symbol of historical significance.

The second wave of detailed restoration was undertaken in the years of 1995-1996 and was led by noted preservation architect, Harvie Jones.

Funding was provided by the Alabama Historical Commission, the City of Decatur, and the Old Bank Board of Directors.

The architecture of the bank shows the influence of Thomas Jefferson's fusion of Palladianism with Roman temple forms.