First National Bank of Bellville

When this bank was chartered in 1890, national banks were still fairly new in Texas. The first, the First National Bank of Galveston, opened on September 22, 1865, but the $50,000 capital the national system required held growth back: only thirteen national banks had been organized in Texas by 1880. Then the number climbed quickly, to 68 in 1885 and 189 in 1890, the year of Bellville's charter, and 440 by 1905. Before the war Texas had allowed almost no banks at all, and the first private banks that followed it were unregulated.

What the plaque says

First National Bank of Bellville The First National Bank of Bellville, chartered on February 25, 1890, is the oldest bank in Austin County, and one of four national banks in Texas still in existence that were chartered in 1890. The first officers were E. J. Marshall, president; C. F. Hellmuth, vice president; and E. M. Reynolds, cashier. The bank first opened on the town square, and moved to its present location in 1970. In 2007, the bank merged with industry bank shares incorporated which consists of locally owned banks in various parts of Texas. The First National Bank of Bellville continues to support the community and the region as a locally owned institution. (2015)

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Bellville — steps away
• Original Site of St. Mary's Episcopal Church — steps away
• Early History of Bellville Methodist Church — 0.2 mi
• Joachim H. Hintz — 0.6 mi