21129. City National Bank (Fort Worth, TX)

Bank Information

Episode Type: Run → Suspension → Reopening
Bank Type: national
Bank ID: 2359
Charter Number: 2359
Start Date: August 20, 1885
Location: Fort Worth, Texas (32.725, -97.321)

Metadata

Model: gpt-5-mini
Short Digest: 5ec446ac

Response Measures

Accommodated withdrawals, Full suspension, Books examined

Description

Multiple articles report a run on City National Bank after revelations that VP/teller John Nichols was a defaulter (Aug 20, 1885). The Comptroller ordered the bank closed and an examiner sent the same day. Examiner later found the bank solvent and the bank resumed operations (reported end of August 1885). Classified as run -> suspension by government order -> reopening.

Events (3)

1. August 20, 1885 Run

Cause: Bank Specific Adverse Info
Cause Details: Public disclosure that vice-president/teller John Nichols was a defaulter (shortages/forgeries) triggered depositor withdrawals.
Measures: Bank paid depositors who presented themselves; business men made large deposits; arrangement with other banks to obtain $60,000 to meet demands.
Newspaper Excerpt: The sensational disclosures ... resulted in a run on that institution to-day.
Source: newspapers

2. August 20, 1885 Suspension

Cause: Government Action
Cause Details: Deputy Comptroller/Comptroller ordered an examiner to take possession and close the bank pending examination after discovery of forgeries and defalcation.
Newspaper Excerpt: This bank has suspended by order of the Comptroller of the Currency, as per telegram.
Source: newspapers

3. August 29, 1885 Reopening

Newspaper Excerpt: Examiner finds the bank perfectly solvent ... I do hereby ... order you to re-open your bank and resume business on the 29th instant. (Bank reopens for business.)
Source: newspapers

Newspaper Articles (16)

1. August 21, 1885 The Indianapolis Journal Indianapolis, IN

Article from The Indianapolis Journal, August 21, 1885

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BANK SENSATION IN TEXAS. The City National Closes Its Doors in Obedience to Orders from Washington. FORT WORTH, Tex., Aug. 20.--The sensational disclosures of yesterday in relation to the affairs of the late John Nichols, vice-president and teller of the City National Bank, resulted in a run on that institution to-day. As soon as the doors were opened, a steady stream of anxious depositors filed through the bank, but about 1 o'clock the crowd, seeing the bank was paying every one who applied, quietly began to disperse, and the run closed. Some business men made large deposits to show their confidence in the bank, and matters seemed progressing favorably for the bank, when, about 2 o'clock, the surprise of every one, the bank's doors were closed, and the following notice posted: "This bank has suspended by order of the Comptroller of the Currency, as per telegram." "WASHINGTON, D. C., Aug. 20. "A. M. Britton, president of City National Bank: An examiner has been ordered to take possession of and examine your bank. Close the doors and hold all assets as they are until his arrival. J. S. LANGWORTHY, Deputy Comptroller." President Britton says that he notified the Treasury Department of the defalcation, and received the above reply. Mr. Britton and a number of other bankers in this city immediately framed a telegram to the Comptroller, asking him to rescind the order closing the bank, but just as their protest was about to be telegraphed, they discovered a forged check for $2,500, also a note for $600, and concluded to allow the doors to remain closed until a thorough examination has been made. Nichols was also city treasurer, and an examination of his accounts to-day showed that he was also a defaulter to the city for $31,300. His bondsmen are responsible men, and the probabilities are that the city will lose nothing. Included in his shortage to the city is $50,000 or city bonds, which are missing. These are supposed to have been sold in the East. It was also discovered that Nichols, in his capacity as vice-president of the City National Bank, had borrowed $13,000 from three other banks in the citv. These loans were immediately paid by the City National Bank. It is believed that Nichols hypothecated, for personal loans, all his shares of the bank, and of all other corporations in which he was a stockholder. As near as can be estimated to night, the shortage of Nichols to the bank and the city of Fort Worth aggregates $75,000. His unsecured loans from outside parties will bring the shortage up to $100,000 or over. He owned considerable valuable property here and at other points in Texas, but it is believed that everything was mortgaged to secure outside loans, the aggregate of which no one knows at this time. There no longer exists a doubt but that Nichols committed suicidé. The physicians say the symptoms of his death indicate strychnine. No explanation as to how or where the dead banker lost his money is yet forthcoming. It is said he was interested in silver mines and other hazardous enterprises.

2. August 21, 1885 Memphis Daily Appeal Memphis, Hernando, Grenada, Jackson, Vicksburg, Atlanta, Griffin, Macon, Montgomery, Selma, TN

Article from Memphis Daily Appeal, August 21, 1885

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CLOSED ITS DOORS. The City Bank of Fort Worth, Tex., Closed by an Order from the Comptroller of the Curreney-Startling Disclosures. GALVESTON, TEX., August 20.-A special to the News from Fort Worth says: The sensational disclosures of yesterday in relation to the affairs of the late John Nichols, vice-president and teller of the City National Bank, resulted in a run on that institution today. As soon as the doors were opened a steady stream of anxious depositors filed through the bank, and about 1 o'clock the crowd, seeing the bank was paying every one who applied, quietly began to disperse and the run ceased. Some business men made large deposits to show their confidence in the bank, and matters seemed progressing favorably for the bank, when about 2 o'clock, to the surprise of every one, the bank's doors were closed, and the following notice posted: "This bank has suspended by order of the Comptroller of the Currency as per telegram:" WASHINGTON, D. C., August 20, 1885. To A. M. Britton, President of City National Bank: An examiner has been ordered to take possession of and examine your bank. Close the doors and hold all assets as they are until he arrives. J. S. LANGWORTHY. Deputy Comptroller. President Britton says that he notified the Treasury Department, and received the above reply. Mr. Britton and a number of other bankers in this city immediately framed a telegram to the Comptroller asking him to rescind the order closing the bank, but just as their protest was about to be telegraphed, they discovered a forged check for $2500, also a note for $600, and concluded to allow the doors to remain closed until a thorough examination has been made. Nichols was also city treasurer, and an examination of his accounts to-day revealed the the fact that he was also a defaulter to the city of Fort Worth to the amount of $31,300. His bondsmen are responsible men, and the probabilities are the city will lose nothing. Included in his shortage to the city are $50,000 in city bonds, which are missing, and twenty Tarrant & Co. bonds for $500 each, aggregating $10,000 market value. These are supposed to have been sold in the East. It was also discovered that Nichols, in his capacity as vice-president of the City National Bank, had borrowed $13,000 from three other banks in the city. These loans were immediately paid by the City National Bank. It is believed that Nichols hypothecated for personal loans all his shares of the bank and of all other corporations in which he was a stockholder. As near as can be estimated to-night, the shortage of Nichols to the bank and the city of Fort Worth aggregates $75,000. His unsecured loans from outside parties will bring the shortage up to $100,000 or over. He owned considerable property here and at other points in Texas, but it is believed that everything was mortgaged to secure outside loans, the aggregate of which no one knows at this time. There no longer exists a doubt but that Nichols committed suicide. The physie cians say the symptoms of his death in8 dicate strychnine. No explanation as to how or where the dead banker lostall his money is yet forthcoming. It is said that he was interested in silver mines and other hazardous enterprises.

3. August 21, 1885 The San Antonio Light San Antonio, TX

Article from The San Antonio Light, August 21, 1885

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FORT WORTH has sensational matter enough on hand to satisfy the most curious. The Gazette failure is severely felt In business cirles, demonstrating how necessary the press of a city is to its business, and there is no certainty of its resumption at present. The affairs of the City National bank are at a standstill, owing to the order of Deputy Comptroller Longworthy to close the doors until the Government could examine into its condition. There was quite a run upon the bank yesterday morning, but all demands were promptly met and city depositors were coming forward with funds so freely that the run had ceased before the Comptroller's order was received. Later developments increase the amount of Colonel Nichols', the Vice-President and Teller, indebtedness, and all indications go to show that he died by his own hand. No light has, as yet, been thrown upon the unfortunate affair indicating any adequate cause for the shortage in the bank account or the other indebtedness of the deceased, which are now known to reach fully $75,000. The issue of the bank examination will be watched with interest, but it is not likely that it will throw any light upon the circumstances which led to the crooked practices of the deceased. It is only known that sooner than face the disgrace, he accepted death as the alternative.

4. August 21, 1885 The Democratic Leader Cheyenne, WY

Article from The Democratic Leader, August 21, 1885

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A Heavy Defaulter. FORT WORTH, Aug. 20.-The sensational disclosures in relation to the affairs of the late John Nichols, vice president and teller of the City National bank, re sulted in a run on the bank institution to day. As soon as the doors were opened a steady stream of anxious depositors filed through the bank, and about 1 o'clock the crowd, seeing the bank was paying everyone who applied, quietly began to disperse and the run ceased. Some business men made large deposits to show their confidence in the bank, and matters seemed progressing favorably for the bank, when, about 2 o'clock, to the surprise of everyone, the bank's doors were closed and the following notice was posted: "The bank has suspended by order of the comptroller of the currency, as per telegram: "WASHINGTON, Aug. 20.- To A. M. Britton, President City National Bank: -An examiner has been ordered to take possession of and examine your bank. Close the doors and hold all assets as they are until his arrival. HT OT

5. August 21, 1885 Sacramento Daily Record-Union Sacramento, CA

Article from Sacramento Daily Record-Union, August 21, 1885

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The Troubles of a Texas Bank on Account of a Defaulting Officer. FORT WORTH (Tex.), August 20th.-The sensational disclosures in relation to affairs of the late John Nichols, Vice-President and Teller of the City National Bank, resulted in a run on that institution to-day. As soon as the doors were opened a steady stream of anxious depositors filed through the bank, and about 1 o'clock, seeing the bank was paying every one who applied, quietly began to disperse, and the run ceased. Some business men made large deposits to show their confidence in the bank, and matters seemed progressing favorably for the bank, when about 2 o'clock, to the surprise of every one, the bank's doors were closed, and the following notice was posted: This bank has suspended, by order of the Comptroller of the Currency, as per telegram from Washington, August 20th, to A. M. Britton, President of the City National Bank. An examiner has been ordered to take possession of and examine the bank. Close the doors and hold all the assets as they are, until his arrival. (Signed.) J. L. Langworthy, Deputy Comptroller." President Britton states that he notified the Treasury Department of the defalcation, and received the above reply. Britton and a number of other bankers in this city immediately framed a telegram to the Comptroller, asking him to rescind the order closing the bank, but just about as their protest was to be telegraphed they discovered a forged check for $2,500, and also a note for $600, and concluded to allow the doors to remain closed until a thorough examination is made. Nichols was also City Treasurer, and an examination of his accounts to-day revealed the fact that he was also a defaulter to the city of Fort Worth in the sum of $31,300.

6. August 21, 1885 Savannah Morning News Savannah, GA

Article from Savannah Morning News, August 21, 1885

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DEATH SHOWS DISHONOR. BANKER NICHOLS FOUND TO HAVE BEEN A DEFAULTER. A Discrepancy of $30,000 Already Discovered-He Also Fleeced the City as Its Treasurer-His Demise Now Attributed to Suicide-A Run Followed by the Closing of the Bank. FORT WORTH, TEX., Aug. 20.-A startling rumor was spread through this city yesterday to the effect that the late John Nichols, Vice President of the City National Bank, whose sudden death occurred last Monday at the bank, was a defaulter to a large amount. Immediately after his demise the officers of the City National Bank called a meeting of all the other bankers of the city to investigate the affairs of the bank. This committee report that they find Mr. Nichols to have been a defaulter to about $30,000, but the committee consider the bank solvent and sound. THE BANK SOLVENT. The bank has a paid up capital of $150,000, with a surplus of $60,000. A. M. Button, President of the bank, says that they are well prepared for a run and that the bank is perfectly solvent and will recover its loss out of the estate of Mr. Nichols. It is now generally believed that Mr. Nichols' death was suicidal. He is believed to have left an estate valued at $100,000 and his life was insured for $24,000. Although Mr. Nichols was Vice President of the bank and held $50,000 worth of its stock, he officiated as teller, and thus had an opportunity for abstracting money without the knowledge or assistance of any other employe. ALSO CITY TREASURER. Mr. Nichols was also city treasurer, but thus far no irregularities in his accounts as treasurer have been discovered. So far as is known the outside indebtedness of Mr. Nichols on individual notes amounts to but $20,000, although rumors are current that his private indebtedness is much larger. Mr. Nichols was a man of frugal habits, and did not drink or gamble. His funeral yesterday was the largest ever witnessed in the city. The discovery of the delfalcation created a profound sensation, as Mr. Nichols stood very high and was one of the most popular citizens of this place. He leaves two daughters, both of whom are married. A RUN ON THE BANK. FORT WORTH, TEX., Aug. 21, 2 A. M.The sensational disclosures in relation to the affairs of the late John Nichols resulted in a run on the bank this morning. As soon as the doors were opened a steady stream of anxious depositors filed through the bank, and about 1 o'clock the crowd seeing that the bank paid every one who applied, quietly dispersed, and the run ceased. Some business men made large deposits to show their confidence in the bank, and matters seemed progressing favorably for the bank, when about 2 o'clock, to the surprise of everyone, the bank's doors were closed, and the following notice was posted: "This bank has suspended by order of the Comptroller of the Currency, as per telegram." ASHINGTON, D. C., Aug. 20, 1885. A. M. Britton, President of City National Bank: An examiner has been ordered to take possession of and examine your bank. Close the doors and hold all assets as they are until his arrival. J. S. LANGWORTHY, Deputy Comptroller. President Britton stated that he notified the Treasury Department of the defalcation and received the above reply. Mr. Britton and a number of other bankers in this city immediately framed a telegram to the Comptroller, asking him to rescind the order closing the bank, but just as their protest was about to be telegraphed they discovered a forged check for $2,500 and also a note for $600, and concluded to allow the doors to remain closed until a thorough examination has been made. An examination of Mr. Nichols' account as City Treasurer to-day revealed the fact that he was also a defaulter as City Treasurer.

7. August 21, 1885 The Dallas Daily Herald Dallas, TX

Article from The Dallas Daily Herald, August 21, 1885

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OUR BANKS The accident to the City National bank at Fort Worth created quite a stir yesterday in financial circles there. When R man whose past exemplary conduct, without a blemish in all of life's relations, so far as the world knows, is suddenly found to be guilty of a fearful violation of a sacred trust, it is seemingly enough to shatter the confidence of the most confiding, and to make a community suspicious of characters of the cleanest records. And yet, on the other hand, in reality the pendulum may swing too far to the other side and produce a damaging disturbance all unnecessary. We are not yet apprised as to how or why VICE-PRESIDENT and TELLER NICHOLS should wind up so sadly with such a shortage. True the report made by the bankers as reported in our yesterday's issue, was not cheering. It lacked that positiveness as to the real solveney of the City National bank that alone would inspire confidence. Indeed its tendency was to weaken it, and a run on it was a most natural consequence. But yet it appears that notwithstanding this run, all would have been well had not the accidentally discovered forgeries of MR. NICHOLS aroused apprehension as to very possible heavy amounts and to unknown limit. This, with the order from the comptroller, really occasioned 8 suspension which otherwise could have been averted. The Fort Worth banks have, as & rule, done a vory conservative and legitimate business, though for some time back whispers have been in the air that the City National bank was concerned in and was carrying too much of the wrong sort of securities. The Dallas banks, without exception, as far 8.S we can learn, have all been especially careful and prudent, and were never on 21 more solid and safe basis than now. The unprecedented crops will bring money to farmer and merchant, and both of these classes have also been conducting a prudent campaign. There is therefore no reason to apprehend anything akin to uneasiness, much less to & panic, even at the Fort. THE HERALD has seen proper to in. vite general attention to the demands for more money and cheaper rates under our constantly expanding conditions, and it has just AS carefully shown that funds can be most safely invested here either through the banking institutions now with us, officered by the best of our eitizens, or by additional agencies. And we reiterate the propositions. The personality of the casualty at Fort Worth ought not to injure the status of either the bank of the scene, or of the other banks there. In Dallas not a ripple of excitement was caused either on the part of depositor or depositary.

8. August 21, 1885 The Dallas Daily Herald Dallas, TX

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FOR WOR NEWS CITY NATIONAL BANK CLOSED After Much Public Excitement and a Heavy Run-John Nichols Short as City Treasurer $27,000. Forgeries Discovered. Other Items. FORT WORTH, Aug. 20.-[Special.]Since early this morning the city has been in a state of foverish excitement over the defalcation of John Nichols, late vice-president and teller of the City National bank. The committee from the different banks who had been requested yesterday morning by Mr. A. M. Britton, president of the City National, to examine and report upon the affairs of the bank, did not finish report until late last night, and consequently what the committee reported was not generally known in the city until this morning. Right here it is proper to correct AN ERKOR which appoared in this morning's HERALD in regard to the report of this committee. It was stated that the committee said they exonorated Mr. F. S. Bulwer, son-in-law of Mr. Nichols,and book-keeper in the bank, from any connection with the affair, when the fact was that they neither undertook to censure nor ex onorate anybody. THE HERALD correspondent was led into this error by information furnished him by a well known gentleman of the city, and a man of honor who, himself, was mistaken in his information. When the true report of the committee was gotton, which was about 1:30 this morning, it wassent at onco and intended to be substituted for the one sent previously. This is all there is about it. The ofheers of the City N ational bank are A. M. Britton, president, and George R. Newton, cashier. Mr. John Nichols was, before his death, vicepresident and teller. They claim to have a capital of $150,000 and a surplus of $69,000. The officers of the bank anticipating H run on the bank this morning by reason of rumors having been circulated that the bank was crippled by the defalcation, had made arrangements with the banks in the city to get $60,000 so as to be prepared for any emergency arly in the morning 01 WG began to collect about the contacor, and when the bank opened its doore the sy begen to pour into the doo: and drow out their money. While crowd that athered about the bank, one b 1 BIT waiting his turn, was never composed of more than 50 pBoplo, they kept coming until 1 o'clock, when the run was at an end. By this time confidence had been restored, for notwithstanding the run all day long deposits were being made by solid business men. It was noticeable that the run was made altogether by farmers, laboring men and women, who for the most part only had small amounts on deposit. When the bank was thought by the officials to have passed through the crisis, a telegram was received from the comptroller of the currency, at Washington, which CLOSED THE DOORS. At2 o'clock the frontdoor was closed and the following pus "This bank has suspended by order of the comptroller of the currency, as per telegram attached." Washington, D. C., 12 o'clock, Aug. 20.To Texas: M. Britton, President, Fort Worth, Examiner has been ordered to take possession and examine your bank. Close doors and hold all assets as they are until his arrival. [Signed] J.S. Langwerthy, Deputy Comptroller. Mr. Britton this morning had telegraphed the comptroller of the default of $30,000 in order that that official might not, perhaps, Fee some exaggerated account of it. He did not expect such an answer ns this, and had prepared a telegram, signed by the various National banks in the city, asking that officer to rescind his order,as they were perfectly able to pay out, and this was just about to be sent when & farmer, Mr. C. O. Edwards, came in to draw what money he had deposit. "How much money do you think you have to your credit?" said Mr. Britton. "Well, about $3,800," responded Mr. Edwards. The books were examined and it was found that there was only some $1,300 Mr. Edwards' credit, but A FORGED CHECK for $2,500 was found. It ran thus: "Fort Worth, Texas, Aug. 18, 1885. "The City National bank will pay cash $2,500. C. O. EDWARDS." This check was canceled and marked paid, and scross the back of the check written the name of A. F. Crowley. This was pronounced by Mr. Edwards a forgery, and Ghot knowing how many more such mignt be behind was scided to close the doors until bank examiner arrived. Mr. Britton states positively that handwriting on this that or Me. Nichole onn

9. August 21, 1885 The Salt Lake Herald Salt Lake City, UT

Article from The Salt Lake Herald, August 21, 1885

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A Heavy Defaulter. FORT WORTH, Tex., August 20.-Sensational disclosures in relation to the affairs of the late Mr. Nichols, vicepresident and teller of the City National Bank, resulted in a run on that institution to day. As soon as the doors were opened, a steady stream of anxious depositors filed through the bank, and about 1 o'clock, seeing that the bank was paying every one who applied, quietly began to disperse, and the run ceased. Some business men made large deposits to show their confidence in the bank and matters seemed progressing favorably for the bank, when about 2 o'clock to the surprise of everyone, the bank's doors closed and the following notice was posted: "This bank has suspended by order of the Comptroller of Currency as per telegram." WASHINGTON, August 20, 1885. To A. M. Britton, President City National Bank. An examiner has been ordered to take possession of, and examine your bank: Close the doors and hold all assets as they are unut his arrival. (Signed,) J.L LANGWORTHY, Deputy Comptroller. President Britton states that he notifled the Treasury Department of the defalcation, and received the above reply. Britton and a number of other bankers in this city immediately framed a telegrain to the Comptroller asking of him to T seind the order closing the bank, but just as their protest was about to be telegraphed they discovered a forged check for $2,500, also a note for $600, and concluded to allow the doors to remain closed 1 ntil a thoroughexamination was made. Nichols was also city treasurer, and an examination of his accounts to-day, revealed the fact that he was also a defaul to the city of Fort Worth, in the sum of $31,300. His Londsmen are responsible men, and the probabilities are the city will lose nothing. Included in h S shortage to the city are $5,000 in city honds, which are missing and twenty Tarrant County bonds for $500 each, aggregating $10,000 market value. These are supposed to have been sold in the East; it is also discovered that Nichols, in his capacity as vicepresident of the City National Bank, h d borrowed $13,000 from three other banks in the city. Their loans were immediately paid by the City National Bank. It is believed Nichols hypothecated for personal loans all his shares in the bank, and in the other corporations in which he was stockholder. As near as can be estimated to-night. the shortage of Nichols to his bank and the city of Fort Worth, will aggregate $759,000. His unsecured loans from outside parties will bring the shortage up to $100,000. He owned considerable valuable property here, and at other points in Texas, but it is believed everything was mortgaged to secure the outside loans, the aggregate of which no one knows. There no longer exists a) doubt but that Nichols committed suicide. Physicians say the symptoms of his death indicate strychnine. No explanation as to how or when the dead banker lost all his money is yet forthcoming. It is said he was interested in silver mines and other hazardous enterprises.

10. August 22, 1885 Daily Kennebec Journal Augusta, ME

Article from Daily Kennebec Journal, August 22, 1885

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A BIG STEAL. The Fort Worth Bank, Texas, Suspends Pavment-Nichols a Defaulter to the Tune ef $100,000. GALVESTON. Tex., Aug. 21. A special from Fort Worth says: The sensational disclosures of Wednesday in relation to the affairs of the late John Nichols, vice president and teller of the National Bank, resulted in a run on that institution, Thursday. As soon as the doors were open a steady stream of anxious depositors filed through the bank, and about one o'clock the crowd seeing that the bank was paying every one who applied, quietly began to disperse and the run ceased. Some business men made large deposits to show their confidence in the bank, and matters seemed to be progressing favorably for the bank, when about two o'clock, to the surprise of every one. the doors of the bank were closed and the following notice posted: "This bank has suspended by order of the comptroller of currency as per telegram to Wm. A. Britton. President of the City National Bank: WASHINGTON, Aug. 24. An examiner has just been sent to take possession of and examine your bank. Close the doors and hold all assets as they are until his arrival. J. S. LONGWORTHY, Deputy Comptroller." President Britton states that he notified the treasury department of the defalcation and receive the above reply. Mr. Britton and a number of other bankers in this city immediately framed a telegram to the comptroller asked him to remand the order closing the bank, but just as their protest was about to be telegraphed they discovered a forged check for $500. also a note for $600 and concluded to allow the doors to remain closed until a thorough examination has been made. Nichols was also city treasurer and an examination of his accounts, to-day, revealed the fact that he was also a defaulter to the city of Fort Worth in the sum of $31,300. His bondsmen are responsible men and the probabilities are that the city will lose nothing. Included in his shortage to the city are 85000 in city bonds which are missing, and twenty Torrent county bonds numbered from 34 to 55 for 8500 each, aggregating $10,000 market value. These bonds are also missing and are supposed to have been sold in the east. It was also discovered that Nichols in his capacity as vice president of the City National Bank had borrowed $13,000 from three other banks in the city. These loans were immediately paid by the City National Bank. It is believed that Nichols hypothecated for personal loans all his shares in the bank and other corporations in which he was a stock holder. As near as can be estimated the shortage of Nichols to the bank and the city of Fort Worth aggregates $75,000. His unsecured loans from outside parties will bring his shortage up to $100,000 or over. He owned considerable valuable property here and at other points in Texas. It is believed that everything was mortgaged to secure outside loans, the aggregate of which no one at this time knows. There no longer exists any doubt but that Nichols committed suicide. Physicians say that the symptoms of his death indicate strychnine. No explanation as to how or where the dead basker lost his money is forthcoming. It is said that he was interested in silver mines and other hazardous enterprises.

11. August 22, 1885 The Portland Daily Press Portland, ME

Article from The Portland Daily Press, August 22, 1885

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A BANK ROBBED. The Vice President of a Texas Institution the Perpetrator. The Fort Worth National Bank Obliged to Suspend. GALVESTON, Aug. 21.-A special from Fort Worth says: The sensational disclosures of Wednesday in relation to the affairs of the late John Nichols, Vice President and Teller of the City National Bank, resulted in a run on that institution yesterday. As soon as the doors were opened a steady stream of anxious depositors filed through the bank, and about 1 o'clock, the crowd, seeing the bank was paying every one who applied, quietly began to disperse, ane the run ceased. Some business men made large deposits to show their confidence in the bank, and matters seemed progressing favorably for the bank, when about 2 o'clock, to the surprise of every one, the bank's doors were closed and tde following notice was posted: This bank has suspended, by order of the Comptroller of the Currency, as per telegram: WASHINGTON, Aug. 20. To William A. Britton, President of City National Bank: An examiner has been ordered to take possession of and examine your bank. Close the doors and hold all assets as they are until his arrival. (Signed) J. S. LANGWORTHY, Deputy Comptroller. Mr. Britton*a and a number of other bankers in this city immediately framed a telegram to the Comptroller asking him to rescind the order closing the bank, but just as their protest was about to be telegraphed they discovered a forged check for $2500, also a note for $600, and concluded to allow the doors to remain closed until a thorough examination has been made. Nichols was also City Treasurer, and an examination of his accounts to-day revealed the fact that he was also a defaulter to the city of Fort Worth in the sum of $31,300. As near as can be estimated to-night the shortage of Nichols to his bank and the city of Fort Worth aggregates $75,000. His unsecured loans from outside parties will bring the shortage up to $100,090 or over. There no longer exist a doubt but that Nichals committed suicide. The physicians say the symptoms of his death indicate strychnine.

12. August 23, 1885 The Dallas Daily Herald Dallas, TX

Article from The Dallas Daily Herald, August 23, 1885

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WORTH LOCAL NEWS EXCITEMENT SUBSIDING New Developments In the Bank Fail ure-Sale of the Gazette Postponed Until the 1st of September-Railroad News A Gambler Jugged. FORT WORTH, Aug. 22.-[Special.]is slways 8 calm after a storm of course the excitement and in interest, which has been maniin the Nichols defalcation last Tuesday, has, as is natural mewhat subsided. There are no developments in the affair, and is noticeable that those who, a few ago, asserted positively that thing could make them believe John Nichols had any wrong, have some weakened to day and Imit that the forged check and other of crooked transactions about are very damaging to his good but they are still inclined to leniently upon his misdoings say there must have been some erson or persons who made & tool o to accomplish their ends. This a great many other suppositions hich are floating about town, is unded merely on a supposed knowl of the dead man's character, and hope ongendered by long friend that his memory may not alway under the dark cloud of defalea The question of & post morten xamination has been a very genera of conversation to-day, but no has been made toward having body disinterred, and it seem range that the proper author remain as dumb a oyster, and as inactive as nail, while the public is clamorous the fact to be definitely ascertained hother or not John Nichols tool and thus ascertain the amoun credence that should be put in the rdinary verdict of a coroner's jury he "colic" business has all alon regarded by those who know the when they 808 it,as rather gauzy THE CITY NATIONAL BANK. Affairs remain in statu quo, the still being closed, awaiting the of the bank examiner. It is known when he will arrive, but 1 supposed he will be here to-night 01 >morrow morning When he does he will make R thorough exam nation of the affairs of the bank 10 will probably tak overal days to do thi alone. A8 Mr. Nichols had trans srred almost all of his property be his death, it is supposed that th will lose part, if not all, of th 30,000 for which he was defaulter. Con idence in this bank has not been los the business men, and it, no doubt be open again for business whe examiner has completed his work THE GAZETTE. The Gazette suspension has been S vershadowed by recent develop nents of facts 80 much more sensa ional in their import that it has al ceased to be a topic of conversa except among the typos, the edi and business forces of that de journal. They still linger 'roune "busted" vase, and perhaps the the scent of the roses is ye oating around; but they sa the effluvis withou financial basis does no the entire bill as it should be occu Yesterday evening Mr. Britton ecoived a dispatch from the comp roller of the currency at Washington sking him to postpone the sale of to lazette. which had bsen advertise to-day. On the strength of thi elegram,it was telegraphed THE HER that the sale had been postponed Britton telegraphed the comp to allow the sale to go on, an morning the comptroller replies go ahead with it. At 3 o'clocl Gasette newspaper, machinery ype, presses, etc., were offered 11 of the court-bouse, for sale R ublic outery. It was announced the bid under $9000-the amount fo which the deed of trust was madewould be considered, and that the urchaser would be expected to cash. Having tailed to go single bid, the sale was ostponed until the first Tuesday 11 eptember, which is the first of the nonth. In the meantime, it is said the Mail intends to wet out I norning edition. While all this is go on, THE HERALD continues to sup the reading public with the lates from all parts of the world. The ubtic can tell a good newspaper when see it. WORTH AND NEW ORLEANS RALROAD. A greatmany have expressed doubts to whether the Fort Worth & Orleans railroad would ever proany further than & simple preminary survey. All such may as all pocket their misgivings now, and for ard and lend 8 helping hand the good work. The contract for rading has been let, and work will robably be commenced the latter of next week. There is no unertaking that has ever been dis. issed which is 80 important to the welfare of this city as this railand now that such men as essrs. Joseph H. Brown and W. A. uffman are taking such a lively inin the enterprise, there can be doubt but that it will be pushed with vim and energy. There's in the it. old land yet, and don't you KICKED HER LAST KICK. A woman named Maggie Louise, no at one time was famous as a jig ancer on the vaudeyille stage, died this city this morning, after a two illness with fever. She is said

13. August 27, 1885 The Dallas Daily Herald Dallas, TX

Article from The Dallas Daily Herald, August 27, 1885

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OUR Fort Worth correspondent gives some interesting particulars as to the City National bank affairs. It will be gratifying news to the Fort and to the banking fraternity generally to hear that the bank will resume. Every suspension or failure, no matter where it may occur in the State, hurts us all. The information that the Gazette will reappear on the 1st proximo is also another feather in the Fort's cap.

14. August 29, 1885 The Dallas Daily Herald Dallas, TX

Article from The Dallas Daily Herald, August 29, 1885

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FOR WORTH LOCALNEWS THE MORNING NEWSPAPERS. The City National Bank Resumes Operations-Court Matters-How He Was Roped In-The Santa Fe Strike-Rumored Resigmation-Other News. FORT WORTH, Aug. 25.-[Special.]"The mills of the gods grind slowly, but they grind exceeding fine." The sheriff and his attachments have disappeared from the Gazette office and printers are now at work at their cases and the "literary fellows" are grinding out "copy" for the appearance of the paper to-morrow morning. The deeds of trust, attachments and all the debts of the paper generally have disappeared before the harmonizing influence of the cash as readily as the morning dew before a summer's sur. The Gazette Publishing company, with acapital stock of $50,000, has been organized. J. C. Loving, a wealthy cattleman of Jack county, is president of the company; George B. Loving, vice-president; J. O. Ford, treasurer, and George Speller, secretary. The paper will be oonducted by the following gentlemen: George B. Loving, general manager and managing editor; C. E. Lee, editorial writer; Thoo. Holt, telegraph editor; J. B. Pratt, city editor; J. B. Roberts and J. T. Ginnochio,reporters, and M. W. Corrico, commercial editor and city solicitor. The Gazette starts now free of debt, and issues its first paper exactly two weeks since its sus pension. The fact of the revival of the Gazette upon a firm financial footing coming to the ears of the business men, who were backing the Democrat newspaper venture, Mr. James Loving was communicated with, and that gentleman assured them that it is his intention to have a first-classnewspaper. It is understood that the Democrat will be laid on the shell, and as only one morning newspaper can flourish in this city, the Gazette will have the support of the business men. The Democrat, since its appearance, has never cut any figure as & newspaper, and its probable demise only causes one to exclaim: "Since It was 80 quickly done for, wonder what It was begun for. Bo the newspaper war, which at one time promised to be so lively, has vanished in smoke. THE morning PAPERS. The latest information is that the origi nal movers in the Democrat venture have decided to adhere to that paper. AD airs are now about the same ES yesterday, except the Gazette comes out to-morrow. To-night a brass band serenaded the Gazette office and anvils were fired in honor of the revival of that paper. CITY NATIONAL BANK. Mr. E. M. Gatman, national bank examiner, has about finished his labors on the affairs of the City National bank. The amount of the defalcation is now thought to be about $27,000. It was thought at first by the examiner that his labors would not be finished in time to opon the bank be fore Monday next, but now it is his intention to allow the bank to throw open its doors for business to-morrow morning. The shortage of Mr. Nichols will not impair materially the condition of the bank and no run is expected when the doors are opened, confidence in the solvency of the concern having been entirely restored, and thus it is that both the Gazette and the bank, about which there were 80 many gloomy forebodings, are on their feet again. COURT MATTERS. Frank H. Reynolds filed suit to-day In the district court against the Texas & Pacific railroad, claiming $20,000 damages for injuries sustained. The plaintiff alleges) that he is a eitizen of this county, and on the 27th of March, 1884, was employed as an engineer by defendant, and on that day, while engaged about his regular business at Gordon, he stepped upon a coal platform and by the falling of that, he was precipitated to the ground with such force as to injure his back and spinal column, so that he is permanently injured. He alleges that he was confined to his bed for two months and paid $125 for medical attention, and that his injuries are permanent and he no longor has the ability to follow his vocation or any other work. It is furthermore alleged that at the time of the accident he was earning $100 per month, but since that time he has not earned anything, wherefore he wants $20,000 damage. RESIGNED. The Mail this evening says: Mr. Walter L. Malone, lately appointed deputy revenue collector for this city, has it is understood, resigned that position, as his editorial duties on the Demcerat will require all of his time. AMUSEMENT SEASON. The season at the opera house in this city will be opened by the Madaline Lucetta Comic Opera company, on the night of the 18th of September. This will be followed by three other companies the next week. PERSONAL. Mr. John W. Langhorne, who has been prospecting in Texas since last March, leaves to-morrow morning for his home at Norfolk, Virginia. He expects to return to the State. Hon. James Q. Chenoweth, first auditor to-day. of the treasury, was in the city Dr. R. H. Chilton and Mr. B E. Cabell, of Dallas, were in the city. THE SANTA FR STRIKE. The strikers still remain firm and there is no change in the condition of things. This evening the following dodger was scattered abroad in this city: "Laborers Wanted-Not to interfere with or handle any freight or do any work for the Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe and Texas & St. Louis railways until after the present strike has ended. By request of THE STRIKERS. HOW IT WAS. Lindley, the young man who was swindled out of $144 by confidence men, in this city, an account of which has appeared in THE HERALD, is still in the city, and in conversation with THE HERALD representative, explained how it was that he happened to be taken in 80 easily His home was in Northeast Missouri, near the Arkausas line, and on account of his health he had determined to

15. August 29, 1885 Fort Worth Daily Gazette Fort Worth, TX

Article from Fort Worth Daily Gazette, August 29, 1885

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THE CITY NATIONA Open for the Transaction of ness This Morning at Nine O'clock. Examiner Finds the Bank as So a Dollar and so Testifies in His Report. A RETROSPECT. E. M. Getman, the national miner, who was detailed by the of the treasurer at Washing estigate the condition of the bank in this city, has con labors and announced to the the bank is perfectly solven its capital is unimpaired. dance wito his instruction from Washington, he h: the president and board of of the bank to open their door and resume business. itemized report of the affairs was sought by a reporter for ETTE, but the examiner had a to give it previous to forw headquarters. The following order to the ban signed by the examiner, ho ufficient testimony that the con he banks' affairs is healthy, and public need have no fears ( of the institution: In obedience to orders receiv from the comptroller of the cur proceeded to make and hav upleted a thorough examinatio estigation of the affairs of your having thereby found your b perfectly solvent and your capit aired, I do hereby, in obedier tructions received from the order you to re-opèn your resume business on the more urday, the 29th instant." the above is a most satisfactory he so-called troubles of the Ci bank. Its capital and reserv intact and those who have osited in the bank will receive of it. the causes which led to the susp he City National bank are in a matter of great interest They tell of a man's fall w thought could never be guilt or a dishonest act. On the he present month John Nichols sident and teller of the City N: suddenly died in the bank, with convulsions just as the bank vault at 8:30 ruing. In thirty minutes he man, and the last words spo were: "It is that colic," u as Dr. Burts entered the room coroner's inquest it was dev Mr. Nichols had been subject of colic, and that fact taken i with his last words, caus to render a verdict of "death vulsions produced by colle." mmediately after the death it was ascertained that 1 in his accounts with the ban approximating $30,000, siders placed the a higher. At first could hardly be credited by had known Mr. Nichols fro he came to this city, and it we expected that an exami the affairs of the bank would d nething that would brush awa which appeared on his previou As the investigation progr vever, the proof of his defalcati more conclusive, and the Ide gested that Mr. Nichols had com FELO DE SI. fter a diligent search for light i that the deceased teller ha morning of the 17th, about : previous to his death, from the drug store of : vell, on Houston street, a bottle one drachm of strychnine, et tranto This

16. September 4, 1885 The Iola Register Iola, KS

Article from The Iola Register, September 4, 1885

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NEWS OF THE WEEK. Gleaned by Telegraph and Mail WASHINGTON NOTES. THE publicity given to the fact that the United States Treasurer had resumed the transfer of gold coin from San Francisco to New York by registered mail has again caused a suspension of that mode of transportation. It is not expected that any more gold will be sent through the mails for some time. MR. CANNON, Comptroller of Currency at Washington, recently received a telegram from Bank Examiner Gelman, who is in charge of the City National Bank, of Fort Worth, Tex., reporting that the bank was unquestionably solvent, and would resume business in a few days. THE Chief of the Bureau of Statistics reports the total value of exports of domestic cattle and hogs and of beef, pork and dairy products, as follows: July, 1885, $8,480,579; July, 1884, $10,278,049; seven months ended July 31, 1885, $56,904,369; same months ended July 31, 1884, $54,411,766; beef and pork products for the nine months ended July 31, 1885, $67,708,092; beef and pork products for the same time in 1884, $65,570,360; dairy products for the three months ended July 31, 1885, $4,031,716; dairy products for the same time in 1884, $5,624,560. THE total values of exports of breadstuffs from the United States was reported at Washington recently as follows: In July, 1885, $8,714,305; in July, 1884, $12,371,754: in the seven months ended July 31, 1885, $85,558,982; in the S Iven months ended July 31, 1884, $80,546,131. THE Post-office Department at Washington is dissatisfied with both the quality and rate of printing postal cards under the new contract. As the supply on hand is about exhausted, however, the Postmaster General may elect to accept the cards now being printed at a rate below the contract price. JUDGE McCUE, Solicitor of thr Treasury, recently rendered a decision that the custom of giving Government employes thirty days leave of absence each year was an abuse that had grown up in the service, not authorized by any special provision of law. THE Treasury Department was recently informed that a party of armed Cubans had left the island of Cuba for the Florida Keys, and it was supposed that their object was to organize a filibustering expedition to overthrow the Cuban Government. The party would be arrested on landing. ACTING SECRETARY FAIRCHILD has rejected the offer of Julius A. Rohmberg to pay $5,100 in compromise of judgments amounting to $103,000, obtained on his distillers' bond in the Circuit Court of the District of Columbia seven years ago.