The First State Bank was organized as Bank of Menard in 1903.  The Bank’s building was constructed of native stone and continues to serve as the Bank’s Menard facility on the corner of San Saba Avenue and Bevans Street.  Operating as a private bank, it was organized by William Bevans and Dick Russell for the settlers who had to keep money in merchants' safes or ride sixty miles to do their banking.  Officers of the young bank were William Bevans, president; C. B. Mason, Cashier; and W. P. Bevans, bookkeeper.  In 1910 George C. Stengal of Mason joined the bank as bookkeeper.    

The Bank was converted to a National Bank in 1919 and became known as Bevans National Bank.  William Bevans remained as president, W. P. Bevans was Vice President, George C. Stengal was named Cashier, and W. A. (Willie) Cannon was Assistant Cashier. On January 1, 1929 the Bank's name was changed to the Bevans State Bank of Menard. 

In 1964 a historical medallion was placed on the front of the beautiful old rock building.  The inscription reads "Bank of Menard - 1903 - Built of native stone for settlers then keeping money in merchants' safes or riding 60 robber-infested miles to do banking. Recorded Texas Historical Landmark, 1964."

A complete renovation of the facilities was completed in summer 1982.  The renovation and expansion included a new drive-thru window, a new vault, a new bookkeeping area and additional office space.  The night depository was relocated to the west side of the building adjacent to the drive-thru facilities.  In December 2000, the bank placed the first ATM into service.

The Bank celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2003 and on January 1, 2004 changed its name to First State Bank. The new name was adopted in conjunction with the establishment of a full service banking location in Abilene, Texas. Please contact us in Menard at 325-396-4550 or in Abilene at 325-677-3000 or by email for all of your banking needs. 

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