Our History
Organizing the first bank in Bowie, Texas must have been something like the homesteading of Oklahoma. Although Bowie had existed for sometime without a bank, in 1890 it suddenly occurred almost simultaneously to at least two groups that such a financial institution should be organized. Although the first couple of attempts by these groups to form a bank were unsuccessful, the Comptroller of Currency issued National Bank Charter #4265 to The First National Bank on March 19, 1890.
The 1920s and 1930s
Pictures inside the Bank illustrate the darker days of banking during the 1920s. In 1932, having already seen all the other banks in Bowie close their doors, First National Bank did not even spend the money to have its statements printed. On December 14, 1932, statements were typed and copies were prepared with carbon paper to save the cost of printing.
It was less than three months after this date that a nationwide bank holiday was declared. First National Bank was permitted to reopen for business March 15, 1933, the first day that any national bank outside of reserve cities and cities with clearing houses was permitted to open.
The 1940s and 1950s
Before many years had passed, the bank had need for additional space and a number of additions were added to the original bank building. In the late 1940s and early 1950s the bank continued to prosper with deposits exceeding the $1 million mark in 1940. Who ever coined the phrase "The First Million is the hardest" must have been thinking of First National Bank. It took 50 years to get to the first million; less than three years later the $2 million milepost was passed.
The 1960s to the 1990s
The First National Bank saw much growth during this time period. During the early 1960s the bank, wanting to make the banking experience more convenient for its customers, built its first motor bank. It was during the 1990s that the First National Bank of Bowie saw huge growth by acquiring and building four additional Banking Centers located in Nocona, Alvord, Henrietta, and Decatur. The combined assets of the First National Bank of Bowie achieved all-time records in 1999 when it grew to over $223 million.
The 2000s and beyond. . .
Facing increased competition from other banks (over 300 banks in Texas are named First National Bank) and other financial organizations, the Board of Directors realized it needed a more encompassing name in order to capitalize on future growth in different markets. Staying true to the bank's original commitment of remaining an independent and locally owned bank in each of the communities it serves, the name "Legend Bank" was chosen.
As we face the new century in providing our communities' with another 111 years of sound banking and financial services, we can say with all confidence that at the LEGEND BANK, the legend continues . . .
