Offenhauser Building
Texarkana, Bowie County, Texas
Marker Inscription
First brick structure in Texarkana, built about 1879 for First National Bank. On second floor was Kelsey & Offenhauser Insurance Agency. Here in 1883, pioneer businessman F. W. Offenahuser, later a leading agent in Texas and Arkansas, wrote his first insurance policy. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1965
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Built about 1879 for the First National Bank, the Offenhauser Building was the first brick structure in the young railroad town of Texarkana. On its second floor was an insurance agency where, in 1883, pioneer businessman F. W. Offenhauser wrote his first policy before becoming a leading agent across Texas and Arkansas. The building stands as an early landmark of the town's commercial beginnings.
Why it matters
The building marks the birth of business and banking in a booming border railroad town, and the start of a notable regional insurance career.
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Related people
- · F. W. Offenhauser
Themes & tags
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