About
The Venue
The Reserve a Grand Venue: Our History
The Banc has stood as a proud centerpiece of downtown Hammond, Indiana since its doors first opened in 1925, originally built for First National Bank. Rising as Hammond’s very first skyscraper, this historic building quickly became a symbol of progress, ambition, and possibility for the local community. Its foundation was laid in July of 1924, and just over a year later a topping off ceremony marked the completion of a structure that would serve generations to come.
Designed by Addison C. Berry, an apprentice to the famed architect Daniel Burnham, The Banc carries a legacy of craftsmanship and visionary design. Berry’s influence extended beyond Hammond, contributing to some of Chicago’s most celebrated architectural achievements, including the Art Institute of Chicago and the World’s Columbian Exposition. That same spirit of ambition and artistry now lives on within the walls of this iconic landmark.
The building was later renamed First Trust and Savings Bank, then in 1931 became the Hammond National Bank and Trust Co. Over time it evolved into First Midwest Bank and was known as The Bank Calumet. In its peak years the first floor served as a financial hub, while floors two through nine were professional offices. More than a financial institution, it was a gathering place where the community came together to build trust, lay foundations, and invest in the future of Hammond and the Northwest Indiana region. Its marble halls and ornate detailing reflect both the architectural style of the era and the pride of the people it served.
Hammond’s cultural history extends beyond architecture. The city also shaped one of the nation’s most beloved holiday films, A Christmas Story. Written by Hammond native Jean Shepherd and inspired by his childhood in the city, the movie immortalized Hammond as the fictional Hohman, Indiana. Today visitors from across the country come to the Indiana Welcome Center to experience A Christmas Story Comes Home, a holiday exhibit that celebrates Shepherd’s legacy and Hammond’s place in American culture.
In 2015 The Banc closed its doors and stood vacant for four years until 2019, when a member of NWI Development Group rediscovered its enduring potential. Many professionals have since reached out, sharing memories of the floors and offices where they once worked. And now, a century later, The Reserve a Grand Venue continues to play a vital role in Hammond, Indiana.
In 2019 the City of Hammond met with world-renowned urban planner Jeff Speck, who brought a renewed vision for downtown and its improvements. Hammond was determined to make the city walkable, an effort highlighted in the PBS series Walkable USA. Enhancements such as on-street parking, the South Shore rail line expansion, and a new downtown station just two blocks away are helping bring renewed energy and accessibility to the community. The area has experienced a true resurgence.
Today The Reserve a Grand Venue transforms this historic landmark into a premier wedding venue and event space in Hammond, Indiana. Hosting wedding ceremonies, receptions, corporate events, galas, holiday parties, and community gatherings, The Reserve blends historic charm with modern amenities to create unforgettable experiences. Couples searching for the perfect wedding venue in Northwest Indiana will find that The Reserve offers a one-of-a-kind setting for their most memorable day.
Every celebration held within its walls honors the legacy of The Banc while creating new memories for generations to come. This landmark has always been about more than bricks and mortar. It is about people, community, and the enduring belief that Hammond’s best days are always ahead. Whether you are planning a wedding, a corporate event, or a community celebration, The Reserve a Grand Venue in Hammond, Indiana offers a unique and historic setting for life’s most important moments.