Jefferson County Online A part of the IAGenWeb and USGenWeb Projects Banking Interests

The first bank in Fairfield was opened January 1, 1851, by Bernhart Henn, Jesse Williams, George D. and Edward A. Temple, under the firm name of Henn, Williams & Co. Edward A. Temple retired in 1853, and went West. In 1857, George D. went out, and, soon after, L. E. and C. A. James became members, the style of the firm being changed to Bernhart Henn & Co. They were succeeded, in 1862, by Samuel C. Farmer whose business was merged into the First National Bank, organized in 1865, Mr. Farmer becoming Cashier. In 1874, he retired, and, December 1, 1875, opened the present banking bouse (sic - house) of Samuel C. Farmer & Sons.

In 1863, George A. Wells opened a private bank which he conducted until 1876, when G. A. Garrettson, of Muscatine, was admitted into partnership, and the firm name changed to Wells & Garrettson.

The First National Bank commenced business August 1, 1865, with James F. Wilson, President, and Samuel C. Farmer, Cashier. Present officers, James F. Wilson, President; George D. Temple, Cashier; Directors, J. F. Wilson, President of the Board, George Acheson, R. H. Hufford, Sumner M. Bickford and Godfrey Eichhorn. Capital, $100,000. Place of business, southeast corner of the square.

The banking house of Samuel C. Farmer & Sons is composed of Samuel C. Farmer, Samuel C. Farmer, Jr. and Jo. F. Farmer. Capital, $30,000. Place of business, south side of the square.

Wells & Garretson, east side of square. Capital, $30,000.