Historical Marker

The Laredo National Bank

Historical marker location:
Laredo, Texas
( N/A)
Marker installed: 1995
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Villa de San Agustin de Laredo, founded here by area rancher Tomas Sanchez in 1755, was an agrarian-based community for its first 125 years. The convergence of three railroad lines here in the 1880s significantly expanded business activity in Laredo and attracted many new European and Mexican immigrants to this area. These events heralded a shift to a mercantile economy and prompted San Antonio merchant John King Beretta to open a privately-owned bank in 1892.

The bank prospered and was chartered by the U.S. Treasury as the Laredo National Bank in 1895. The bank's initial success was sustained by Mexican trade, local Bermuda Union production in the 1890s, and commercial activity associated with the production of oil in the area during the early 1900s.

The bank continued to prosper during the Mexican Revolution (1910-1917), due partially to increased U.S. military activity in the area. By 1922 Laredo National Bank boasted $2 million in assets.

Sound fiscal policies allowed the bank to emerge from the 1930's depression on solid ground. In 1979-1983 this building (former site of the Robert E. Lee and Plaza hotels) was renovated for use as the bank's headquarters.

Sesquicentennial of Texas Statehood 1845-1995

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

banks, bankers, banking topics
The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
Texas random facts
Webb County, located in southern Texas along the Mexico border, has a rich and vibrant history dating back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by various Indigenous groups, including the Coahuiltecan and Cabeza de Vaca tribes. In 1705, the Spanish government established what is now known as the city of Laredo, making it one of the oldest European settlements in present-day Texas.

During the 19th century, Webb County played a crucial role in the struggle for Mexican independence and the subsequent development of the Texas Republic. In 1836, during the Texas Revolution, Mexican troops led by General José de Urrea were defeated by the Texian forces at the Battle of San Patricio, which took place near present-day San Patricio, a community within Webb County.

Following the Texas Revolution, Laredo became an important trading center, connecting the United States and Mexico. The city's location along the Rio Grande made it a key point for trade and transportation, leading to its rapid growth. In 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ended the Mexican-American War, and Laredo became part of the United States.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries brought significant changes to Webb County. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s further stimulated economic growth, as it provided an efficient means of importing goods and exporting local agricultural products. This led to the expansion of ranching and agriculture industries in the region. Additionally, the discovery of oil and gas reserves in the early 20th century brought further prosperity and development to the county.

Today, Webb County continues to thrive as a bustling border city and a hub of trade between the United States and Mexico. With a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant economy, the county serves as an important intersection of history, commerce, and diversity in Texas.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Webb County, Texas.

  • 1848 - Webb County is established as a county in the state of Texas.
  • 1849 - The first permanent settlers arrive in what is now known as Laredo, the county seat of Webb County.
  • 1852 - The county's first courthouse is built in Laredo.
  • 1860 - The population of Webb County reaches over 4,000 residents.
  • 1881 - The Texas-Mexican Railway reaches Laredo, leading to increased trade and development in the county.
  • 1906 - A new courthouse is built in Laredo to replace the previous one.
  • 1944 - The Laredo Air Force Base is established, contributing to the county's economy and providing employment opportunities.
  • 1977 - The Rio Grande Industrial Park is opened, promoting industrial development in Webb County.
  • 2010 - Webb County's population exceeds 250,000 residents.