First Black Owned Bank in America: The Inspiring Legacy of the True Reformers Bank in 19th Century America 

BY ADEKE CHUKWUKA

In the late 19th century, America was wildly riddled with racial discrimination and economic disparity between the black and the white. At the time, African Americans were excluded from accessing the full benefits of the banking systems, and the fintech industry was also not dedicated to uplifting African American communities, nor fostering financial independence for the blacks.

The True Reformers Bank, founded in March 2,1888 by Reverend William Washington Browne, was established as a response to these discriminations. Rev. William Washington Browne was a former slave and Union Army officer from Georgia. The name of Rev. Browne’s first Black-owned bank in America, was inspired by the Grand Fountain United Order of True Reformers, a Black fraternal organization also founded by him.

The True Reformers Bank was not merely a financial institution; it was a symbol of hope and progress for African Americans during a time when opportunities for economic advancement were severely limited. Reverend Browne envisioned a bank that would serve as a catalyst for change, providing financial resources, education, and stability to African American families and entrepreneurs. His vision was grounded in the belief that economic empowerment was the key to social progress and equality.

Moreso, the True Reformers Bank played a pivotal role in promoting financial inclusion and literacy among African Americans. At a time when many banks refused to serve African American customers, this institution welcomed them with open arms. It offered savings accounts, loans, and banking services, allowing individuals and businesses within the community to thrive. By fostering a culture of saving and responsible financial management, the True Reformers Bank empowered generations to break the cycle of poverty and build a better future.

Beyond its financial services, the True Reformers Bank was deeply involved in community outreach and education. It organized financial literacy workshops, entrepreneurship seminars, and vocational training programs, equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. The bank’s commitment to education and empowerment extended beyond its doors, creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout African American communities.

On a flip side, this Bank did not just thrive in the absence of challenges, some of which included economic downturns, racial prejudice, and systemic discrimination. But despite these obstacles, the bank persevered, driven by its unwavering commitment to its community. Its resilience in the face of adversity became a source of inspiration, reinforcing the importance of determination and unity in the pursuit of social and economic progress.

During the U.S. economic depression of 1893, while many banks faced panic and withdrawals, Rev. Browne’s bank thrived. It not only weathered the storm but also emerged as one of the few banks in Richmond capable of fully reimbursing its customers and sustaining uninterrupted operations. Following Browne’s passing in 1897, the bank still persisted, diversifying into various sectors including newspapers, real estate, a retirement home, and a building and loan association. Its expansion reached 24 states, marking a testament to its enduring success and resilience.

The bank only started to experience setbacks under the leadership of a new president, Reverend William Lee Taylor, after the death of Rev. Browne. The institution faced mismanagement, frequently issuing unsecured loans that eventually defaulted. The situation worsened when the bank’s cashier embezzled $50,000, leading to its downfall. In 1910, the State Corporation Commission ordered the bank’s closure. however its unfortunate end, the True Reformers Bank, holds a significant place in history as the first bank owned by African Americans in the United States.

The legacy of the True Reformers Bank endures through the generations it inspired. Today, its impact can be seen in the thriving African American businesses, educational initiatives, and community organizations that have emerged from its legacy.