What is Bank of Romney's history?

Written by Editorial Team | Last Updated: August 2026

The Bank of Romney, located in Hampshire County, West Virginia, holds a distinguished status as a long-standing independent community bank. It first opened its doors on December 20, 1888, and it remains the oldest and largest banking institution within its county today. Initially chartered as a state-run bank, it was founded with a capital stock of $30,000 under the leadership of its first president, Henry B. Gilkeson. For its first few decades, the bank operated out of two rooms in the Wirgman Building on Main Street. However, its continued growth necessitated a move to a dedicated two-story facility in 1906, which served as its home for sixty years. The bank successfully navigated several significant historical challenges, including the global impact of two World Wars and the hardships of the Great Depression. Despite these obstacles, it reached the million-dollar asset milestone in 1937 and continued to expand its financial influence throughout the twentieth century. In 1966, the bank relocated to its current headquarters, and in 1988, to celebrate its centenary, it formed a bank holding company, Romney Bankshares, Inc. The institution has maintained a consistent focus on community partnership and personalized service throughout its history, surviving various economic downturns and leadership transitions, including the recent challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the bank manages assets exceeding $350 million, remaining a vital pillar for local families and businesses.

Related FAQs

Desert Financial Credit Union is widely celebrated as one of the absolute best financial cooperatives to join in Arizona, frequently securing top positions on state-wide consumer rankings.

Bank of Romney provides a full spectrum of traditional community banking products designed to support individuals, families, and local businesses.

The Bank of Romney has a longstanding history rooted in community banking within West Virginia, established to serve local families, agricultural enterprises, and regional merchants with secure deposit accounts and commercial lending.

Yes, the Bank of Romney is structured explicitly as a locally owned and operated independent community bank, proudly serving families and businesses since the late nineteenth century.

Romney is a historic municipality located in Hampshire County, West Virginia, celebrated as the oldest incorporated town in the state.

The Bank of Romney operates an established community banking branch located directly in Capon Bridge, West Virginia.