Peninsula State Bank was constructed in 1951, featuring the first drive-in windows in the area. Two drive-in auto teller windows were installed, and the bank’s ad slogan was “Come as you are, bank from your car.” Over its life, the building was shared by Maas Brothers Appliances (on the south side) and John Hancock Insurance on the second floor. The building expanded six times before being com­pletely renovated by the new Atlantic Bank of Tampa.

Jacksonville-based Atlantic Bancorporation acquired Peninsula in 1973. The bank ownership hot potato continued as Atlantic Bank merged with First Union in 1985. From there in 2001, First Union merged with Wachovia to form Wachovia Corporation, and in 2010, Wachovia merged with Wells Fargo. Like many land parcels in Tampa, the names have changed, but the business purpose remains the same.

 © Chip Weiner. All rights reserved