Organized Banking began in Eagle Lake in 1896 with the formation of a private Bank known as Vineyard, Walker & Co., private Bankers. Six years later, in 1903, the Eagle Lake Headlight carried the following article: “The Newsome corner lot where Abe Beakes’ barbershop now stands was sold yesterday to W. T. Eldridge for a consideration of $3,250.00, which is the highest price yet paid for Eagle Lake real estate. We are informed that a two-story brick building, which will be used for a Bank to be erected on the lot.” This is the earliest mention of what turned out to be The First National Bank of Eagle Lake. Organization plans were formulated late in 1903, the building was constructed and the charter issued as of December 30, 1904, to W. T. Eldridge, B.L. Vineyard, A. M. Waugh, G. W. Deaton, and Chas. Davis, who served as the first President. The Bank opened for business on January 3, 1905, with Capital of $25,000.00.Mr. Charles Davis resigned after one day as President in order for William Green, a professional Banker from Shiner, Texas, to assume the leadership of the Bank. Since that time, only nine other men have served as President: namely, J. J. Whatley from October 1906 to January 1916, Fox Stephens from January 1916 to March 1918, Frank Stephens from May 1918 to December 1920, W. S. Strickland from December 1920 to November 1942, Wm. E. Lenhart from January 1943 to January 1960, G. H. Crane from January 1960 to February 1963, Wm. Harrison, Sr. from February 1963 to April 1979, and Wm. H. Harrison, Jr. from April 1979 to December 2004, Sam Kana from January 2005 to December 2024. A new milestone was reached on October 1, 2023, when Leslie Sedlock became the Bank’s first female President. Following Sam Kana’s retirement December 31, 2024, Leslie advanced to President/CEO, a role she continues to hold today, carrying forward the Bank’s legacy of leadership and progress.
The first Call Report by the Comptroller of the Currency came just after opening on January 11, 1905. It showed total loans of $31.00, total deposits of $7,348.00, and total assets of $35,872.00.
For over 110 years, our Bank has been a strong and friendly source of financial services. It is independently owned by some 85 plus shareholders, most of whom live right here in Eagle Lake.
Although we continue to occupy the same “Newsome corner lot” purchased in 1903, that original structure was replaced in 1958. Significant expansion in 1982 doubled the amount of work area and drive-up facilities. In April 2000 we opened our East Bernard Banking Center. Our Columbus Banking Center opened in August 2004. Throughout our history, we have continually upgraded facilities and equipment so that employees and customers may enjoy comfort, convenience and the efficiency of modern Bank technology.
