Comanche in Comanche County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
The Comanche National Bank
Opened to the public in March 1890, the Comanche National Bank saw immediate success, as Comanche was poised for economic growth by the early 1890s. The railroad arrived in 1891, the same year in which the county constructed a new courthouse. Also in 1891, the bank directors purchased the lot on the southwest corner of the courthouse square and constructed a building that served the bank's operations until 1969.
T.J. Holmsley followed J.B. Chilton as bank president from 1891 until 1901. Chilton returned and served for the next 32 years, until his death in 1933. William C. Chilton then became president and served until retiring in 1959. With a change in control, Dr. J.C. Terrell was elected chairman of the bank's board of directors in 1959. He served until his death in 1980. During his tenure, presidents Jack W. Moore, from 1960 to 1972, and Reginald K. Waggoner, from 1973 to 1979, continued to provide strong leadership that helped the financial institution weather economic downturns and prosper during periods of growth.
Located at this site since 1987, Comanche National Bank continues to serve the community as a significant part of Comanche's business history.
Erected 2004 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 12506.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce. A significant historical month for this entry is March 1890.
Location. 31° 53.834′ N, 98° 36.2′ W. Marker is in Comanche, Texas, in Comanche County. Marker is at the intersection of East Central Avenue (U.S. 377) and South Austin Street (State Highway 16), on the left when traveling west on East Central Avenue. The marker is located near the entrance to the bank. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 100 E Central Ave, Comanche TX 76442, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Bison (American Buffalo) (within shouting distance of this marker); The Comanche (within shouting distance of this marker); Confederate Veterans (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Veterans Memorial (about 400 feet away); Preacher Hardin Family (about 400 feet away); Water on South Side of Square (about 400 feet away); John Wesley Hardin (about 400 feet away); Jo G. Hardin and Cousins (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Comanche.
Credits. This page was last revised on May 7, 2024. It was originally submitted on May 6, 2024, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas. This page has been viewed 68 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on May 6, 2024, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas.