Merchants and Farmers State Bank
Weatherford, Parker County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Chartered on January 22, 1889, as the Merchants and Farmers National Bank of Weatherford, this institution opened for business on March 15, 1889, with capital of $100,000. In 1909 the bank's directors voted to apply for a state charter, and the institution's name was changed to Merchants and Farmers State Bank. Originally located on the southwest corner of the town square, the bank has occupied this site on the northeast corner since 1893-94. Early leaders of the bank included E.H. Eddleman, President from 1889 to 1915; W.R. Woodhouse, President from 1915 to 1919; and J.H. Doss, Sr., President from 1919 to 1945. The Merchants and Farmers State Bank has played an important role in Parker County history as the primary lending source for many agricultural enterprises, local businesses, and home mortgages. The bank has maintained a strong civic commitment since its founding and supports a number of community and charitable activities. Continued growth over the years has led to the construction of modern banking facilities. Renamed Texas Bank in 1986, this bank has contributed to the growth and development of Parker County for over a century. (1990)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Chartered in early 1889 as a national bank with $100,000 in capital, this Weatherford institution converted to a state charter in 1909 and took the name Merchants and Farmers State Bank. From its corner on the town square it became the primary source of credit for the county's farms, businesses, and homebuyers, guided by a succession of long-serving presidents. Renamed over the decades, it helped underwrite Parker County's growth for more than a century.
Why it matters
Local banks like this one were the financial backbone of agricultural counties, turning cotton and cattle into the capital that built Main Street.
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Related people
- · E. H. Eddleman
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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