The Sinton townsite company was organized in 1894 to promote development of the new railroad town of Sinton, and local merchant David Odem, one of its founders, became a prominent landowner and businessman there. In 1906 he became one of the principal stockholders in the newly organized Sinton State Bank, and this building was erected in 1909 as the Sinton State Bank Building. Closely associated with David Odem, it became known locally as the Odem Building. Its architectural design shows Beaux Arts influences, emphasizing symmetry, a focal corner entry with fine terra cotta details, cast stone door and window surrounds, two-story arches over round-arched windows, and terra cotta detailing on the top of the parapet. The Sinton State Bank operated here until difficulties during the Depression led to its closing in 1934, and afterward the building was used for various business purposes. Because of its solid construction, the Odem Building survived storm- and fire-related disasters that destroyed or damaged many of the early wooden structures in Sinton's downtown area.