First National Bank of El Campo

The First National Bank of El Campo traces its history to the Koch and Poole Mercantile Company. In 1890 El Campo was an exciting new railroad town. Customers left their money in the Koch and Poole safe for protection, and soon the store assumed the duties of a banking institution. A group of local businessmen purchased the company and applied for a national bank charter, which was granted in January 1902. A two-story bank building was erected on the corner of Monseratte and Post Office Street. The bank's founders were instrumental in the development of El Campo and led efforts to have the city incorporated in 1905. Providing investment capital for the rice and oil industries, which were the foundations of El Campo's economy, the bank grew with the city, survived the Great Depression, and emerged as a strong financial institution serving residents throughout Wharton County. After sixty-five years at the Monseratte St. location the bank moved to a larger facility at this site. It continues to support business, civic, and youth activities throughout the county.

First National Bank of El Campo is a historical marker in El Campo, Wharton County, dedicated in 1991. It is one of 44 historical markers documented in Wharton County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 128 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 29.1987, -96.2679 near El Campo. The nearest cataloged historic site is Krueger, Culp (historical marker), about 0.1 miles away. Others within a short drive include El Campo Library Building, St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Parish, and El Campo Independent School District.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5481001795. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.