First National Bank of Wilmington Records, 1863-1988 | Northern Illinois University

On December 2, 1863, Andrew Whitten, sons James and John, sons-in-law, A.J. McIntyre and J.W. Stewart formed the First National Bank of Wilmington under the National Currency Act.  Charter Number 177 was issued to the Bank on December 18, 1863 authorizing the men to proceed with their business.  The organizers formed the Board of Directors with A.J. McIntyre as President, John W. Steward as Vice President, and James Whitten as Cashier.   

The original quarters consisted of rooms set aside in the General Store operated by Andrew Whitten and his sons.  In August, 1864, the construction of the bank's first building began with an addition being added in 1953.  A present building was completed in November, 1964 and an addition was added in 1972.  

As of 1989 the First National Bank of Wilmington was the third oldest bank in Illnois.  Only Chicago and Peoria were chartered earlier and remain in business.