Washington County State Bank
Brenham, Washington County, Texas
Marker Inscription
James S. Giddings (1849-1940) was the principal organizer of this financial institution, which was established as the result of the creation of a state banking system in 1905. The official date set by the Legislature for filing bank charters was August 13, 1905. Since that date fell on a Sunday, the first charters were filed in Austin on August 14th. Washington County State Bank was the fifth in line that day to receive a charter. Since the first four state-chartered banks have been dissolved, Washington County State Bank is the oldest state bank in operation in Texas. The bank's first officers included H. K. Harrison as president, James Giddings as cashier, and Alex Simon, Sr., and A. D. Milroy as vice-presidents. Harrison served as president until his death in 1914. Washington County State Bank has grown and continues to serve Brenham and the surrounding area. Housed at 115 East Main Street for the first 73 years of its existence. The bank moved to this site in 1978. It retains historical significance as an early participant in the state-chartered banking system. (1985)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
When Texas created its state banking system in 1905, charters could first be filed on August 14, and Washington County State Bank — organized largely by James S. Giddings — was fifth in line that day in Austin. Because the four banks ahead of it have since dissolved, it stands as the oldest state-chartered bank still operating in Texas, having served Brenham from its Main Street home for its first 73 years before moving in 1978.
Why it matters
The bank's founding marks the birth of state banking regulation in Texas, part of the Progressive-era drive to bring order and public trust to American finance.
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Related people
- · James S. Giddings
- · H.K. Harrison
- · Alex Simon, Sr.
- · A.D. Milroy
Themes & tags
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