In 1969, following additional  renovations and space acquisition,  the parking lot to the rear of the  Bank became available. Prior to the great fire of 1813, this  land had been occupied by the  large wooden home of the Sheafe  family. The house was destroyed  in the fire. A new residence was then built of brick,  as required by state law after the fire. This stately  mansion abutting State Street, became the home of  Jonathan M. Tredick, former president of Piscataqua  Savings Bank. Later in 1892, this site was occupied  by the Rockingham County Court House. When the Court House was moved to Exeter in 1960,  Piscataqua was not successful in the bidding for the  building. Its new owner, Seaward Construction  Company, demolished it and installed a paved parking  lot offered for rent, controlled by a gate with cards  issued to renters. This was a less than successful  commercial venture, since the gate could be opened  with a stick of gum or a bobby pin. In 1969, the  parking lot was offered to the Bank and immediately purchased. In 1978, the parking lot was completely redesigned, with landscaping and gardens planted to create a park-like environment. Piscataqua Savings Bank is proud to be recognized by civic groups such as the Chamber of Commerce and the Portsmouth Advocates as a standard setter for architectural and environmental excellence. The Bank is the recipient of several awards for the best use of an existing building and for preservation of the townscape.