HistoricSiteMarkers
Progressive & Modern Era

Farmers and Merchants National Bank

Nocona, Montague County, Texas

Marker Inscription

The oldest financial institution in continuous operation in Nocona, the Farmers and Merchants National Bank was founded in 1905 with capital stock of $30,000. Seven directors were named at the bank's organizational meeting, and W.A. McCall (1845-1915) was named President. Upon his death, he was succeeded by his son, Cadmus McCall (1876-1953), who served for thirty-eight years. First housed in the J.A. Foshee Store at Oak and Clay Streets, the bank moved to this location in 1926. Throughout its history, the bank has been active in the civic life of Nocona. (1987)

Erected by Texas Historical Commission

The Story

Founded in 1905 with $30,000 in capital stock, the Farmers and Merchants National Bank is the oldest financial institution operating continuously in Nocona. Its first president, W.A. McCall, was succeeded on his death by his son Cadmus, who guided the bank for thirty-eight years, and in 1926 the business moved from a corner store to its own building. Through it all the bank remained woven into the civic life of the small Montague County town.

Why it matters

Local banks like this one were the financial backbone of small-town America, funding the farms, merchants, and civic projects that kept rural communities alive.

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Related people

  • · W.A. McCall
  • · Cadmus McCall

Themes & tags

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