Explore Historic Banks in Bastrop County

Bastrop County's banking legacy is woven into its historic downtown architecture, reflecting the community's growth since the late 19th century. Here are the standout historic bank buildings you can explore:

🏦 First National Bank of Bastrop (aka Bank of Bastrop County)

• Established in March 1889 and chartered as a national bank by August of that year—the first in Bastrop County (texashistoricalmarkers.weebly.com).

• Original 1889 building constructed of local brick and lumber survived a nearby fire in 1890 (visitbastrop.com).

• Landmark status: a Texas Historical Marker stands at Main & Spring Streets, commemorating its early presidents and noting its 1950 rebuilding on the site of an 1860s law office once used by J.D. Sayers and George W. Jones (texashistoricalmarkers.weebly.com).

• Modern use: The 1889 structure remains a contributing building in Bastrop's National Register historic district, now serving retail and office businesses at 1018 Main Street (downtowntx.org).

🏛 Citizens State Bank (928 Main St.)

• Built around 1909–1911 in American Beaux Arts / Neoclassical Revival style (visitbastrop.com).

• Notable occupant: Longtime bank president Paul D. Page used the upper floor as his law office until his death in 1945. Page, alongside Lyndon B. Johnson, was instrumental in bringing Camp Swift to Bastrop (visitbastrop.com).

• Architecture: Features classic two-story brick design with elegant arched upper windows and pilasters—vaulted interiors remain intact, even creatively repurposed into wine rooms (loopnet.com).

🧭 Visiting Tips

• Walking tour: Both banks sit within easy reach downtown. Combine them with other historic landmarks like the courthouse and Opera House for an immersive stroll.

• Photo ops: Look for cornerstones—“1909” on the Citizens State Bank—and the polished brick façade of the First National Bank. Historical plaques mark their significance.

• Current occupants: The Citizens State Bank building now hosts a wine shop; the old First National Bank buildings at 1018 Main host eclectic shops and offices.

📝 Historical Overview

Bank	Established	Significance
First National Bank (Bank of Bastrop County)	1889	First chartered bank in county; central to local commerce; survived early fires; site later rebuilt in 1950 but retains historical footprint.
Citizens State Bank	circa 1909	Reflects early 20th-century prosperity; adopted classical bank design; leadership linked to regional development (Camp Swift).

These bank buildings not only showcase Bastrop's economic evolution but also highlight architectural trends—from sturdy bricks to neoclassical elegance. They stand as visual markers of the town’s resilience and aspirations during periods of growth.

🌟 Why It Matters

Historic banks represent more than vaults and transactions—they embody Bastrop's emergence as a regional hub. Their preservation shows a deep respect for architectural heritage and local stories, including connections to state leaders and national initiatives like Camp Swift.

✅ Planning Your Visit

• Start at 928 Main St. to admire the Citizens State Bank.

• Walk a few blocks north to reach the First National Bank site at 1018–1022 Main St.

• Look for historical markers at street corners—classic bronze plaques for easy identification.

• Tip: Check with the Bastrop County Museum & Visitor Center for walking tour guides that include these bank landmarks and more.

By tracing these historic banks, you delve into Bastrop’s financial origins, architectural ambition, and civic identity. They’re indispensable stops for anyone curious about how small-town banks shaped Texas communities.