4782. Wells County Bank (Bluffton, IN)

Bank Information

Episode Type
Run → Suspension → Closure
Bank Type
state
Start Date
February 13, 1929
Location
Bluffton, Indiana (40.739, -85.172)

Metadata

Model
gpt-5-mini
Short Digest
88dca28d9abdb69a

Response Measures

None

Description

Multiple contemporaneous articles report a run on the Wells County State Bank that began Feb 13, 1929; the bank did not open and was closed by a banking examiner. Runs on the Wells County bank precipitated runs and suspensions at other local banks. State bank commissioner filed petitions for receivers Feb 14. The bank entered receivership and did not reopen (receiver actions and sales reported later). Cause classified as local_banks/local panic tied to prior Studebaker failure and resulting nervousness.

Events (5)
1. February 13, 1929 Run
Cause
Local Banks
Cause Details
A panic/nervousness in the locality—run on Wells County State Bank that spread to other county banks; articles cite prior Studebaker bank failure (1927) and local nervousness.
Measures
Bank was closed by Thomas Barr, state banking examiner; state banking department dispatched personnel to control situation.
Newspaper Excerpt
The panic started with a run on the Wells County State Bank, a $1,250,000 institution, when the doors were opened this morning.
Source
newspapers
2. February 13, 1929 Suspension
Cause
Local Banks
Cause Details
Following the run on the Wells County State Bank the institution failed to open and other local banks suspended operations because they cleared through the Bluffton institution and panic spread.
Newspaper Excerpt
The Wells County State bank did not open for business today, and shortly after noon the three other banks, which cleared through the Bluffton institution, also closed their doors.
Source
newspapers
3. February 14, 1929 Receivership
Newspaper Excerpt
Receivers were sought for the Wells County State Bank of Bluffton ... The petitions set out that examinations by the banking department showed the Wells County State Bank ... in failing and insolvent condition. Judge W. Hamilton set Feb. 21 the date for hearings on the petitions.
Source
newspapers
4. June 1, 1929* Other
Newspaper Excerpt
order for M. Stults, receiver for the Wells County bank, to receive bids on July ... The property has been appraised at $25,000 ... occupied at present the First National Bank of this city, under rental agreement. The receiver was handling sale of bank building and liquidation matters.
Source
newspapers
5. October 22, 1931 Other
Newspaper Excerpt
M. E. Stults, receiver for the Wells County Bank ... filed ... reports; distributions made to depositors totaling about 32½ percent. Receiver activities and claims continue through 1931 and later.
Source
newspapers

Newspaper Articles (24)
1. February 13, 1929 The Times Hammond, IN
Article from The Times, February 13, 1929

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TWO MORE WELLS COUNTY BANKS CLOSE NEWS SERVICE BLUFFTON, Ind., Feb. mad that started with the Wells County State bank, $1,250,000 institution here, caused runs on the other banks in this county that forced three other banking institutions to close their doors today. The three other Wells county banks that elosed their doors in rapid today, were: Uniondale State bank at Uniondale, 10 miles north of Bluffton. The Liberty Center State bank Liberty Center, 10 miles west of Bluffton. The Bank Petroleum, 10 miles Bluffton. afternoon only four banks left open in Wells county. were: The Union Savings and Trust Ossian State Bank. Craigville State Bank. The Poneto State Bank. The state banking department understood rushing men here to control the situation.

2. February 13, 1929 The Times Hammond, IN
Article from The Times, February 13, 1929

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TWO MORE WELLS COUNTY BANKS CLOSE [INTERNATIONAL NEWS SERVICE] BLUFFTON, Feb. mad that started with the the Wells County bank, $1,250,000 institution here, caused runs on the other banks in this county that forced three other banking institutions close their doors today. The three other Wells county banks that closed their doors in rapid succession today, were: The Uniondale State bank at Uniondale, 10 miles north of Bluffton. The Liberty bank at Liberty Center, 10 miles of Bluffton. The Bank of Petroleum, 10 miles Bluffton. This only four banks were left open in Wells county. They were: The Union Savings and Trust company of Bluffton. The Ossian State Bank. The Craigville State Bank. The Poneto State Bank. The state banking department was understood to rushing men here to control the situation.

3. February 13, 1929 The Times Hammond, IN
Article from The Times, February 13, 1929

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RUN CLOSES SECOND BANK BLUFFTON, Ind., -Following the closing of the Wells County bank, $1,250,000 institution here today, hours the Uniondale State $225,000 at forced that stitution close its doors. Palmer took the affairs the Uniondale bank.

4. February 14, 1929 The Indianapolis Star Indianapolis, IN
Article from The Indianapolis Star, February 14, 1929

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RECEIVERS FOR BANKS Petitions Filed Following Closing of Four Wells County Institutions. BLUFFTON, Ind., Feb. Receivers sought for the Wells County State Bank Bluffton and the State Bank of Uniondale in petition here today. was filed by Luther The petition Symons, state bank following the closing of four Wells county banks today. petition filed in Circuit court by Mr. Symons. Two Suspend Operations. The Bank of Petroleum and the Liberty Center State Bank also suspended operations. The petitions out that examinations by the banking department showed Wells County State bank and the State Bank Uniondale are failing and insolvent condiJudge W. Hamilton set Feb. 21 the date for hearings on the petitions. The Wells County State bank did not open and shortly after noon the three other banks, which cleared through the Bluffton institution, also closed their doors. Deposits Are $1,250,000. The Wells County bank was capitalized at $100,000 and showed deposits of $1,250,000. E. B. Williamson is president: R. S. Morrow, first vice president: Frank second president, and Fitzpatrick, cashier. bank was closed by Thomas Barr, examiner. The the Uniondale bank and deposits were $200,000. H. W. Lipkey president and Brickley cashier. The Union Savings Trust the only bank in Bluffpany The Studebaker failed 1927. with deposits of $1,500,000. Receivers yet made no payments on deposits. NERVOUSNESS BLAMED. Symons Says Wells County Bank Closing Result of Other's Failure. Seven representatives the state bank department were dispatched to Wells county yesterday by Luther Symons, state bank after four banks had closed their doors. Thomas bank was charge investigations being made by the deMr. Symons said the bank failures resulted from nervousness failure the Studebaker State two ago when Ralph StudeTodd, cashier, committed suicide. Taken as Precaution. Closing the Liberty Center State bank and the State bank of Uniondale measMr. Symons Condition of these banks is definitely known Closing the Bank of Petroleum followed run the institution Tuesday, Mr. Symons said. Mr. Symons said impossible to tell whether the Wells County bank depositors will lose as result the failure. bank was in 1888. The State bank guide shows it to have surplus $60,000. The Uniondale bank, organized in 1908, shows surplus of $7,000. The Liberty Center bank was organized and surplus. Funk president. Situation Not Reflected. Templin is president of the Bank of Petroleum, which was organized 1908 and capitalized $13,500. has surplus $7,500, the bank guide. Mr. asserted that the county lated one and not reflect the banking situation throughout state. Other members of the banking department at work the Wells county are William Dexheimer, loan and credit Palmer Yce Good, Miss Genevieve Brown and Mrs. Griff Taylor. stenographers. Mr. Symons said that the three smaller banks had tions the Wells County bank at He added that hopeful that the Wells County bank might reorganized. Powerful financial interests have been interested for some time in the Wells county situation and aid may be extended. he said.

5. February 14, 1929 Leader-Tribune Marion, IN
Article from Leader-Tribune, February 14, 1929

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Have Asked for Receiver lowing the closing of four wells county banks today Luther F. Sy mons, state bank commissioner, ap peared in circuit court here this afternoon with two petitions asking that receivers be appointed for the Wells County State Bank, of Bluff ton, and the State Bank of Union dale, two of the institutions that closed The Bank of Petroleum and the Liberty Center State Bank also suspended operations. The petitions set out that exby the banking depart ment showed the Wells County State Bank and the State Bank of Uniondale are "in failing and insolvent Judge A. W. Hamilton set Feb 21 as the dathe for hearing on the petitions. The Wells County State Bank did not open for business today, and shortly after non the three other banks, which cleared through the Bluffton institution, also closed their doors. The Wells County Bank was capitalized at $100,000 and showed deposits of $1,250,000 E. B. Williamson is president R. S. Morrow, first vice-president: Frank Waugh, second vice president, and R. N. Fitzpatrick cashier. The bank was closed by Thomas Barr, examiner The capitalization of the Uniondale Bank was $25,000 and deposits were $200,000. H. W. Lipkey is president and W. A. Brickley cashier. The Union Savings and Trust Company now is the only bank in failed in 1927. deposits of $1,500,000. Receivers as yet have made no payments on deposits.

6. February 14, 1929 The Washington Times Washington, DC
Article from The Washington Times, February 14, 1929

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4 Banks In Indiana Are Closed by Runs BLUFFTON, Ind., Feb. 14 (U.S.). Frenzied depositors yesterday closed four banks in Wells county. The State Banking Department was reported to have rushed men here to control the situation and save the four remaining institutions. The panic started with a run on the Wells County State Bank. a $1,250.000 institution. when the doors : were opened this morning. This brought runs on three other banks and closed 11" all four.

7. February 14, 1929 The Richmond Item Richmond, IN
Article from The Richmond Item, February 14, 1929

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dale, two of the institutions that closed. The bank of Petroleum and the Liberty Center State bank also suspended operations. The set that examinations by the department showed the County State bank and the State bank Uniondale are "in a failing and insolvent condition.' Judge A. W. Hamilton set February 21 the date for hearings on the petitions. The Wells County bank was capnot open for today, shortly afternoon the three banks, which through the Bluffton institution, also closed their doors. The Wells county bank was cap- italized at $100,000 and showed deposits of $1,250,000. B. Williamsson is president; R. Morrow, first vice president; Frank Waugh, second vice R. N. Fitzpatrick cashier. The bank was closed by Thomas Barr, The capitalization the Uniondale bank was $25,000 and deposits were $200,000. H. W. Lipkey is president and W. A. Brickley cashier. The Union Savings Trust company now is the only bank in Bluffton. Studebaker bank failed 1927, with deposits of $1,500,000 as yet have made no payments on deposits. Snakes, contrary to common be lief cannot sting-but some can bite.

8. February 14, 1929 The Star Press Muncie, IN
Article from The Star Press, February 14, 1929

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BANKS CLOSED Receivers Are Asked Two Institutions. Bluffton, Ind., Feb. 13 closing four Wells County Luther Symons, state bank appeared in Cirhere this afternoon with asking that receivers be appointed for the County State of Bluffton, and the State Bank Uniondale, two of the institutions closed. Bank Petroleum and the Liberty Center State Bank Hearing on Petitions Feb. 21. The petitions out that examinadepartment the Wells County State Bank State failing and condiJudge Hamilton set February the date for hearing on the The Wells County State Bank did open today. and shortnoon three other cleared through the Bluffton institution, also closed their doors. Bluffton Left With One Bank. Wells County Bank was $100,000 and showed Williamson Morrow, first vicepresident; Frank Waugh, second and Fitzpatrick, cashier. bank closed by examiner. The the Uniondale Lipkey president The and Trust ComBluffton. Studebaker Bank failed in 1927, deposits made payments on Bank May Be Reopened Soon. The Liberty Center State Bank closed doors about noon with consent Deputy State Bank Commissioner Barr. and hopes reopen for busiwithin few days. This bank to wholly solvent and closing give public citement time allay fears about Center started on the bank that reached close the bank temporarily consent given by department. Hope Pay Dollar for Dollar. The Wells Bank, closing of which started the and run closed three other banks has expressed hope that depositors will fully 100 cents dollar. Waugh stated Continued Second Page.

9. February 14, 1929 The Huntington Press Huntington, IN
Article from The Huntington Press, February 14, 1929

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BANKS CLOSED IN WELLS COUNTY BLUFFTON, Ind., Feb. four Wells Following the closing county banks today Luther F. Symons, state bank appeared circuit court here this afternoon with two peittions asking that receivers appointed for the Wells County State of Bluffton, and the State Bank Uniondale, two of the institutions that closed. The Bank of and the Liberty Center State bank also suspended operations. The petitions out that examinations the banking department showed the Wells County State bank and the State Bank of Uniondale are "in failing and incolvent condition. resudge W. Hamilton set Feb. 21 the date for hearings the petiWells County State bank did not for business shortly the three other banks, which cleared through the Bluffton institution, closed their doors. Wells County bank was capital$100,000 showed deposits $1,250,000 E. B. Williamson is presR. S. Morrow first Frank Waugh, second and R. N. Fitspatrick cashier. The bank was closed by Thomas Barr, excapitalization of the Uniondale bank was $25,000 deposits were $200,000. H.W. Dipkey is president and W. Brickley caishier. The Union Savings and Trust Company now is in Bluffton. The Studebaker bank in 1927, with deposits of $1,500,000. Receivers have made no payments on de-

10. February 14, 1929 The Times-Mail Bedford, IN
Article from The Times-Mail, February 14, 1929

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RETURN EPIDEMIC Soon to be Arraigned in Circuit Court Grand Larceny Charge Sheriff Tyree arrived home this morning over the Monon on train from Detroit, having in custody William Covey who wanted here on charge of grand larceny. Covey was arrested in Detroit Monday on Lawrence county warrant and Sheriff ree left to after him Tuesday ternoon. will probably be arraignbefore Judge James Cox in the Lawrence circuit court late today Covey is alleged to be member of the quartet which entered and robbed Homer George Store at Peerless October Lawrence Hillenburg and Glenn Kinder, two of the members of the robber gang now serving penfarm sentences inflicted by Judge Cox after they pleaded guilty grand larceny charges during the Determ the Lawrence circuit court and Orlando Cazee, the fourth given an indeterminate reformatory sentence of from to 10 morning when he pleaded guilty to grand larceny charge. Cazee was arrested by local police early Tuesday morning while hiding in the home of here. Both Cazee and Covhad been fugitives from justice for three months. STATE BANKING CIRCLES AS SEVEN INSTITUTIONS CLOSE DOORS DAY OFFICIALS Declare Panics Were Without Justification and Attempt to Halt Mad Rushes INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., Feb. An epidemic of bank crashes which reached total of seven in the last hours, today rocked Indiana banking circles. Six of the bank suspensions were due to mad panic that started at Bluffton in Wells county. The seventh bank closing was blamed on an leged $100,000 deflation by cashier. With the mad frenzy spreading from Wells county to adjoining ties, every possible effort was made by state banking officials and by the bankers in the affected districts allay the public fear. Community mass meetings were beresorted to in some towns to list citizens to help their banks weather the crisis. "Everybody seems to have lost his sense of proportion," Thomas Barr, assistant state banking commissionwho was hurried to Bluffton in person, declared upon arriving there and looking over the situation. runs on most of the banks have been without Barr refused to comment on the possible further spread of the panic that has paralyzed business in Wells county. Virtually the entire force of the state banking department musterinto the field today to help endangered banks to stem the frenzy that has been spreading from Bluffton all directions. Meanwhile all business lay paralyzin Wells county. The banks still operating were demanding 30 and day notices on withdrawals. The panic at Bluffton had its confidence banking institutions resulting from heavy losses incurred in the $1,400,000 failure there on March 1927, of the Studebaker state bank, one of the oldest banks in Indiana. Ralph Etudebaker Todd, 45, president of this bank, shot and killed himself after the bank was closed. A run on the Wells county state bank Bluffton forced that bank which had deposits of $1,250,000 suspend yesterday morning. This was followed by runs on the Union Savings & Trust Company at Bluffton and on other banks in the counBefore the day was four other banks had shut down, one, the Poneto State Bank, closing for only half day and reopening this morning. When the Union Savings & Trust Company of Bluffton failed to open its doors today, the panic spread from Wells county to Blackford county and forced the farmers deposit bank Montpelier close. Meanwhile the board of directors of the Citizens National Bank at Bartholomew county, ordered the bank closed today after Utt, federal bank examiner found an leged $100,000 shortage in the counts of Cashier Stewart. The seven banks closed in Indiana since yesterday morning and their deposits follow: Well County State Bank of Bluffton, $1,250,000. Union Savings Trust Company Bluffton, $400,000. Uniondale State Bank of Uniondale, $230,000. Liberty Center State Bank of Center, Bank of Petroleum at Petroleum, $155,000. Farmers Deposit Bank of Montpelfier, $610,000. Citizens National Bank of Hope, $400,000. INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., Feb. In commenting today upon the closing of seven Indiana banks since yesterday morning with total deposits of Luther Symmons, state banking commissioner, said: general banking situation Indiana is hopleful and should not be affected by local conditions in Wells county."

11. February 14, 1929 The Call-Leader Elwood, IN
Article from The Call-Leader, February 14, 1929

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RECEIVERS ASK FOR WELLS COUNTY BANKS Bluffton Ind., Feb. 13.-Receivers were sought for the Wells County State Bank of Bluffton and the State Bank of Uniondale in a petition here today. The petition was filed by Luther F. Symons, state bank commissioner, following the closing of four Wells county banks today. The petition was filed in Circuit court by Mr. Symons The Bank of Petroleum and the Liberty Center State Bank also sus pended operations. The petitions set out that examinations by the banking department showed the Wells County State bank and the State Bank of Uniondale are

12. February 14, 1929 The Call-Leader Elwood, IN
Article from The Call-Leader, February 14, 1929

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AL SMITH IN HAVANA. "in a failing and insolvent condition. Judge W. Hamilton set Feb 21 Havana, Feb. 13.-Alfred E. Smith. A. the date for hearings on the peti- New York's former governor, arrived as tions. in Havana today aboard the steamer The Wells County State bank did Shawnee, accompanied by Mrs. Smith. not open for business today, and short Mr. and Mrs. William Kenny, John ly after noon the three other and a large party of friends which cleared through the BlufftonThe former governor said he was hero institution, also closed their doors. IC forget polities for the present. Fishing. bathing and general recreational pursuits will occupy his time, he said. Read the classified ads every day, Numerous functions have been plan25 words for 25 cents,

13. February 14, 1929 The Anderson Herald Anderson, IN
Article from The Anderson Herald, February 14, 1929

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State Official Asks Court To Appoint Two Receivers. BLUFFTON, Feb. 13. Following the closing of four county banks today Luther mons, state bank peared circuit court here this afternoon two petitions asking receivers appointed for the County state bank, Bluff the Bank Uniontwo of the institutions that clos The bank Petroleum and the Liberty Center State bank also sus pended operations. The petitions out that examinations by the banking showed the county state bank and the state bank Uniondale failing and insolvent Judge Hamilton February the date for hearings the petitions. Closing is The Wells county state bank did open for business today, and shortly after noon the three other banks, which cleared through the Bluffton institution, also closed their doors. The Wells county bank was talized $100,000 and showed posits $1,250,000. president: Morrow, first Frank ond and patrick, cashier. The bank closed Thomas Barr, examiner The the Uniondale bank $25,000 and deposits $200,000. H. president and W. Brickley cash- The Union Savings and Trust Company the only bank BluffThe Studebaker failed In deposits of $1,500,000. Receivers made no payments deposits.

14. February 15, 1929 The Cincinnati Enquirer Cincinnati, OH
Article from The Cincinnati Enquirer, February 15, 1929

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BANK RUN Closing In Indiana Within 24 Hours After First Collapse. Cashier Of Hope Institution Held For Federal ment Confessed THE Ind., February Union Savings Trust Company, remaining operating Bluffton Wells County Bank closed its doors yesterday. was closed today. reported many deposi tors withdrew money from the bank The Farmers Deposit Bank the Blackford county line. closed today. said, yesterday. The bank has deat Guy Bracken, the said closed protect depositors and the bank solvent. Luther Symon, State Comand State Banking are in Wells County going records the Wells County Bank, 'three other banks the county which closed following action Wells County Bank, through which Other banks the county that are closed State Bank of Petroleum, the Bank and the erty Center Bank. Receivers Symon petitions the Wells Circuit Court that ceivers appointed for Wells County Both petitions set that conducted Banking these institutions failing and condition. the banking situation largely the result that followed the closing here Studeposits $1,500,000 That bank and far distribuon common have DISPATCH THE Ind., February Herman Cashier National Bank, Ind., closed this was Federal Howard Young, United States sioner, request Bert Patterson, Bank Stewart had admitted having nipulated the shortage. arrested in an office the Merchants National Building taken where he hearing and was held by Hope, and former President the bank Arranged To Details the which accomplished not his Mely United Marshal told him that has money. over make the shortage Luther Symons, State Commissioner, statement today which said the stability the should affected closing The the Banking banking situation Wells has by agithe failure of the Studebaker Bank two Unfounded culated have public confidence that locality. opinion that most, out present difficulty the the by the conditions Wells County.'

15. February 15, 1929 The Hustler Madisonville, KY
Article from The Hustler, February 15, 1929

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BANKS CRASH AFTER RUNS TAKE FUNDS BLUFFTON, Ind., Feb. Union Savings Trust Company, only remaining bank in Bluffton, closed morning after $500,000 run yesterday. The Farmers Deposit Bank of Montpelier also closed today, due, was said here, to a $500,000 run yesterday. Four banks in Wells county closed yesterday. President Fred Tangeman, of the Union Savings Trust Company, said his bank was solvent, and he hoped to reopen the institution after the usual sixty days for reorganization. Following the closing of four Wells county banks yesterday, Luther Symons, state bank commissioner, appeared in circuit court with petitions asking that receivers be appointed for the Wells County State bank, of Bluffton, and the Bank Uniondale, two of the that closed. bank of Petroleum and the Liberty State bank also suspended operations. The petitions set out that examinations by the banking department showed the Well County State bank Uniondale failing and insolvent condition." Judge Hamilton set February the date for hearings the petitions. The Wells County bank was capitalized at $100,000 and showdeposits of $1,250,000. The Union Savings Trust company the only bank in Bluffton. The Studebaker bank failed in 1927, with deposits of Receivers as yet have made no payments on deposits.

16. February 16, 1929 The Indianapolis Times Indianapolis, IN
Article from The Indianapolis Times, February 16, 1929

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CLOSED BANKS PLAN TO OPEN Wells County Crisis May Be Eased Next Week. By Times Special BLUFFTON, Ind., Feb. 16.-Wells county's banking crisis may be eased early next week when the Union Savings and Trust Company is expected to open its doors. Five financial institutions in the county closed- during the week. A mass meeting at which all parts of the county was represented was held here Friday night, several speakers expressing confidence that the situation could be relieved. There were indications that the panicky feeling which caused runs is subsiding. The Wells County State bank here was the first to close. Three other banks, which used the local institution for clearing purposes, ceased business the following day. Then the Union Trust and Savings closed as a precautionary measure, after a run had started. The three others closed were at Liberty Center, Petroleum and Uniondale. At the meeting there were indications that the Liberty Center and Uniondale banks also would re-open next week. Liquidation was reported in progress at Petroleum. The audit of the Wells County State bank has not been completed and there is no information available at this time on its condition.

17. February 16, 1929 The Star Press Muncie, IN
Article from The Star Press, February 16, 1929

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BLUFFTON Prospects Brighter for Two Others. Bluffton. Ind., Feb. 15 The Union Savings Trust company, which closed doors here temporarily Thursday morning. with the consent of the state banking department, for the purpose of giving the depositors opportunity recover from panicky state of mind. that threatened to continue an unnecessary and unwarranted run on the bank, today announced plans reopen banking institution next Monday This reopening was provisional proper restored fidence expressed citizens Bluffton Mass Meeting Held. For the purpose having the banking explained fully and opportunity pubexpress attitude the financial crisis Wells County suspension of business since meeting was here The the public favorable the pany but stand back of other banks ready proceed with the regular depositors that there will no runs from such banks and withdrawals limited to the needs the general of business. The auditorium jammed, the publicity given newspapers personal extended today from city having brought citizens from every section of the county. Other Banks May Open. With the perfectly condition the Company plained there confidence the which seemed that this bank will able to reopen for The Liberty Center State bank another that the banking partment permitted close few days to give the situation time calmed down and which expected resume business soon, possibly the first of the week Uniondale bank is another which may able restoration public confidence Petroleum bank reported going forward with plans for liquidaThe audit of the Wells County bank, this city, first close, had not been completed today and no statement or plans for the regarding

18. February 16, 1929 The Call-Leader Elwood, IN
Article from The Call-Leader, February 16, 1929

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MASS CITIZENS Bluffton, Ind., Feb. 15. The Union Savings and Trust company, which closed its doors temporarily Thursday morning with the consent of the state banking department, for the purpose of giving the depositors opportunity to recover from a panicky state of mind. that threatened to continue an unnecessary' and unwarranted run on the bank, today announced tentative plans to reopen the banking institution next Monday or Tuesday. This early reopening was provisional on the proper attitude of restored confidence expressed by citizens of Bluffton in the meantime. Mass Meeting Held. For the purpose of having the banking situation explained fully and to give opportunity for the general publie to express its attitude in the present financial crisis in Wells county following the suspension of business by five banks since Tuesday, a county-wide mass meeting was held here tonight. The purpose was to endeavor to get the public sentiment favorable to the reopering of the Trust company bank here. but to stand back of other solvent banks ready to proceed with the regular run of business If confidence of depositors guarantees that there will be no runs from such banks and with drawals limited to the needs of the general run of business. The big auditorium was jammed. the publicity given by newspapers as well as personal intiations extended today by automobile parties from this city having brought, representative citizens from every section of Two Other Banks May Open. With the perfectly solvent condition of the Trust Company here explained there were expressions of confidence expressed at the meeting which seemed to give assurance That this bank will be: able to reopen for planned, Center State bank is banking de, partment permitted voluntarily to close for a few days to give the sit. nation time to be calmed down and which is expected to resume business soon, possibly the first of the week again. The Uniondale bank is another which If was reported today may be able to reopen soon with restoration of public confidence. The Petroleum bank was reported going forward with plans for liquidation. The audit of the Wells County bank, of this city, the first to close, had not been completed today and no statement was forthcoming concerning its condition or plans for the Insurance that Insures. Frank E DeHority, 116 North Anderson street.

19. March 23, 1929 Evansville Press Evansville, IN
Article from Evansville Press, March 23, 1929

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CLOSE BLUFFTON BANK AGAIN FOLLOWING RUN DEATHS Mrs. Fern Duffy Funeral Mrs. Fern who died Thursday night her home, 1420 Read-st, held the residence of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Braselton, 1318 Harriet-st. Saturday. Burial in Oak Hill cemetery. John Goebel Services for John Goebel, farmer, who was found dead his home near Armstrong Thursday afternoon, will be held the residence Sunday and m. Paul's Big Cynthiana road. Burial in the church cemetery. Mrs. Evelyn Lynn Final for Evelyn 98. died Thursday the home daughter, Mrs. Helen Cavins, 1405 were held the home granddaughter. Mrs. Ruby Hollander, 1010 Baker-av, Saturday. Burial Barnett cemetery, Mrs. Mary Miller Services for Mrs. Mary Miller, who died Thursday at the home her daughter, Mrs. Mardora Woosley, 112 Michigan-st. were at the daughter's residence at Saturday the Holy Trinity church. The body was taken to Owensboro, Ky., for burial. John Kirchner Last rites John Kirchner, 81. West Heights retired blacksmoth, died Thursday home, will be held the residence Monday and at St. Boniface Catholic church. Burial will be in Oak Hill cemetery. Institution Which Reopened day Forced to Shut Doors Miss Carrie Wendt Miss Carrie died home, 400 at Saturday after lingering ness. She survived by sister, Mary. and three brothers, Frank United and Fred, this city, and Edward, BLUFFTON, Ind. Mar. Union Savings and Trust company Services will be the home Monday, Rev. Rake, which closed Feb. 14 and First Baptist church, officiating opened Thursday. again was closed Burial will be in Locust cemeby directors today, following tery. The bank, having capital of $450,000, closed Feb. after run which had dwindled its DISEASE IS BELIEVED sources. The day previous the TO BE "RABBIT FEVER" Wells County bank failed to open its doors, the run on the savings company occurred. Vincennes Woman's Malady Studied reopening Thursday, di- by Scientists rectors believed that the confidence Special Correspondence of its depositors had been Mar stored and that could resume mysterious malady with which business. Mrs. Frank Shouse announced today. Meanwhile warring camps continued to hurl charges and countercharges, but Director John Williams the highway Gov. Leslie, who demands his and resignation, silent. governor today did deny positively report Williams' lowers that Williams would given the of chief examiner the board of accounts, would retire without contest.

20. June 15, 1929 The Star Press Muncie, IN
Article from The Star Press, June 15, 1929

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ORDER SALE OF DEFUNCT BANK Receiver Ordered to Receive Bids at Bluffton. Bluffton, Ind., June W. Hamilton, in Circuit Court here today, entered an order for M. Stults, receiver the Wells County bank, to receive bids on July for the bank building at Main and Market streets, this city It threestory brick block, 20x75 feet in mensions, occupied at present the First National Bank of this city, under rental agreement. The property has been appraised at $25,000 which includes the permanent bank fixtures. Mrs. Fulton Gets Decree. Mrs. Mary Almeda Fulton. of this city, was granted divorce today from Curtis K. Fulton. on grounds set out in the complaint. She was awarded the custody of three children. Elizabeth, 15, Marjorie, 12. and Robert, and monthly allowance of $30 for support. The defendant pay support money. Pin Scratch Causes Death. Mrs. Mary Hixon, died at o'clock last evening at her home on West Washington street, of an infection that developed from pin scratch. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Sarah Wilhelm, Three Rivers. Mich., and Mrs. Alice Hoch. of Fort and two sons, William and Charles, The funeral services will be held at o'clock SunBurial will be in day Cemetery Bluffton Short Notes. The settlement sheet of the spring tax collections has been returned County Claude Mounsey here. with the approval of the state shows distribution of collected last spring Dr. Wybourn, Ossian, planning to erect new brick business block at the site of his present office quarters. will structure and will be devoted entirely business. Mrs. Mary Johnson, living north of Warren, confined to her home suffering from injuries received when she dragged by cow after she became entangled in rope. She screamed for help but no one heard her and she was unable to release herself until the animal stopped running. She being cared for sister, Mrs. Monroe Hart, who lives in the same community. Edgar Bailey, of Fred Bailey had broken when he was kicked by automobile.

21. September 21, 1929 The Star Press Muncie, IN
Article from The Star Press, September 21, 1929

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BANK RECEIVER LISTS CLAIMS Bluffton Court to Rule on Status of Creditors. Bluffton, Ind., Sept. 20.-M. E. Stults. receiver for the Wells County Bank today certified to the court a list of claims which he did not classify as to their standing, leaving the matter of ruling on their respective status entirely to the court. There will be an additional list of more than 4,000 claims certified to the court, possibly Saturday. upon which the receiver will pass tentatively by classifying them as to general claims, preferred claims, setoffs, etc. The final ruling on each claim will lie with A. W. Hamilton, judge of the Wells Circuit Court. Among the claims certified today are some on which hearings will be necessary. Ft. Wayne Bank Largest Claimant. The largest individual claim certified to the court today is one of $150,000 filed by the First National Bank of Fort Wayne. This claim. based on loans by the First National to the Wells County Bank. is guaranteed by collateral posted with the Fort Wayne bank far in excess of the amount of the loan, and it will be necessary to pay the $150,000 in full before the notes posted as collateral may be redeemed. Secretary of State Otto Fifield has a preferred claim for $8,133.76. based on auto license funds deposted with the bank the local license bureau. Isaac Huffman has claim for $4,000 based on draft which is alleged to have been issued to pay a note to an insurance company, which draft did not clear. Factory Fund Claim. The Bluffton Chamber of Commerce has preferred claim for $3,009. based on funds collected to pay delinquent taxes on the Bay plant. and which it is claimed constitutes a trust fund. Other preferred claims are $244.66 by George Mock. guardian for Martha Yager. and the Chevrolet Motor Ohio Company for $1,990.26; Samuel Barger, $383.99. Claims on Guaranties. The following claims are based on notes alleged to have been sold to claimants with guarantees: Rosella Smuts, $1,000. Ezra Levenson, three totaling $6,800. H. S. McLeod, $3,650. Phanuel McIntire. three for total of $4,100. Set-Off Claims. Claims on set-offs were filed by V. S. Pease, Henry Yake, Hubert Smith, G. D. Snyder, Charles E. Grandlienard, Frank G. Thompson, Ervin D. Miller as guardian of G. W. Watson, George L. Arnold, Guy Falk, Catherine Grandlienard, Bank of Linn Grove, Clark Sours, Ernest McAfee, Charles H. Walters, Isabel McAfee, Hugh Gehrett, L. A. Cowens and R. F. Cummins. Dies While on Visit. Mrs. Mary E. Rhoads, 61, of Harrisburg, Pa., who was visiting in this city, died suddenly at 4 o'clock this morning at the home of Mrs. Ella Smeltzer, of West Cherry street. She was the wife of E. E. Rroads, of Harrisburg. The body will be shipped to Harrisburg for burial. Children surviving are: Howard E. Rhoads, Harrisburg: Alton L. Rhoads, Bridgeport, Conn., and Mary E. Cooper, Akron, O. Dies While Cutting Wood. Christian Beer, 81, retired farmer, died suddenly at 8 o'clock this morning of a heart attack while cutting some wood near the local interurban sub-station, at the south edge of the city. Surviving are the widow and three daughters, Mrs. Lerene Daugherty. Muncie: Mrs. Ray Ambrecht and Mrs. Harold McCleery, Bluffton. The funeral will be held at the Six Mile Christian Church at o'clock Sunday afternoon and burial will be in the Six Mile Cemetery. Bluffton Short Notes. Sheriff F. L. McClain received a report today that one hundred White Rock chickens were stolen last night from the farm of D. J. White, near Pennville. Voters of Ossian, at a mass meeting at the town hall last night, placed two independent tickets in the field for the general election to be held November 5. The two tickets follow Citizens' ticket- Ben Busbee, councilman of South ward: W. H Rahrer. trustee of West ward, and Vance Wilson, clerk-treasurer. People's Charles Hostetter. trustee South ward: Halden Hatfield. trustee West ward. and Glee SumMarylan Ann Faus, aged four months, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Faus, died at 6:45 o'clock last evening, after a four days' illness of intestinal flue. Funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon at the home. in charge of the Rev. W A. Alspach. Burial will be at Fairview. BEHIND THE TIMES. Daughter- Dad, want some money for my trousseau. my dear child, I didn't know engaged. Daughter "Good heavens. Father! Don't ever read the papers? -Bystander London)

22. September 29, 1930 Garrett Clipper Garrett, IN
Article from Garrett Clipper, September 29, 1930

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CROSS COMPLAINT FILED BY BLUFFTON BANK RECEIVER Answer to Fort Wayne Bank's Claim Says Full Amount of Original Loan Paid Ind., Sept Morris Stults, the defunct Wells County bank this has filed in the Wells county circuit claim filed some time ago by the First National and Tri-State National banks of Fort Wayne, the claim the time filing being alleged notes for the First National bank by the County bank prior to the time went into receivership. The out the fact that the Wells County bank ecuted notes in the and turned the First NationIn answer the of the First been lost the receivership due

23. October 23, 1931 The Star Press Muncie, IN
Article from The Star Press, October 23, 1931

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DEFENDS CORN HUSKING TITLE Carl Dick Wins Wells County Event Again. Bluffton, Ind., Oct. 22.-Carl Dick, Lancaster Township, successfully defended his Wells County corn husking championship today in the fifth annual county corn husking bee, held on the Henry Pursley farm near Liberty Center, before crowd estimated at 1.100. By virtue of his victory Dick will represent Wells County in the state husking contest for the second successive year. After allowance for gleanings and husks, Dick's net bushels of corn husked in eighty minutes was 25.9 bushels of corn. He husked 33.1 ears per minute on an average. Alva Smith, Nottinghom Township. was second with 25.1 bushels. He husked 35.9 ears per minute, but dropped behind Dick because of heavier deductions for husks and gleanings. Homer Schlagenhauf Harrison Township. was third with 23.2 bushels of corn. S. J. Brown, Jackson Township. county winner in Madison County last year. finished fourth in the contest here today. Prizes will be awarded at a community celebration at the community building in this city on October 28. The huskers here today might have had little better records had not the corn been so tall. They had to reach up for many of the ears. Tax Reductions Itemized. County Auditor Paul Scott today received word from the state tax board itemizing deductions made from the county general fund and county road repair budgets. by which the two tax levies were decreased respectively one and one-half cents and ten from the general fund is $4,800 and from the road budget $24,238. Heaviest slashes are from the stone and gravel budgets of the road department from which $8,000 and $9,038 respectively were slashed. Charles R. Risser Dies. Charles R. Risser, 79, died at 8:40 o'clock this morning at his home in Markle, following an illness of seven years of cancer. Surviving are the widow and one son, Fred. Huntington. and sister, Mrs. James Veroth, of Alhambra, Cal. He was member of the Markle M. E. Church. Funeral services will be held at the residence in Markle at 2:30 o'clock Sunday aft. ernoon. with burial in the Markle Cemetery. Dyson Named Legion Head. Jesse Dyson was elected commander of the Grover Sheets post of the American Legion at the annual election here last night. He will succeed Franklin Buckner Other officers elected are Roy Baxter. vice-commander; Homer Marshall, adjutant: Ralph Davis, finance officer Clarance Bales. sergeant at arms, and Oman Yager. chaplain Floyd Dennis is plaintiff in a suit for damages in which $500 is asked on charges of malicious prosecution. The case came from Allen Circuit Court on change of venue and names Robert C. Harris defendant It is charged the latter caused his arrest for an alleged motor law violation and that he was acquitted. Bank Receiver's Report Filed. M. E. Stults, receiver for the Wells County Bank, today filed with the court a current report covering the six months period from April 18. 1931 to October 15, 1931. The report shows total assets charged to the receiver in his last report of $543,528. face value. which were it all collectible would be sufficient to pay depositors another 50 per cent, whereas as a matter of fact comparatively small per cent of it is considered collectible. For the period which the current report covers the receiver asks credit for $35,133.50. for the following items. Assets compromised $21,416.51; real farm, loss $2,900; assets set off, $159.33; refunds on over-payment, $159.33; common claims paid on distributions 1, 2 and 3 total, $1,200; expenses of receiver, $6,056.37; fee claimed for receiver's services $1,700; fee claimed for receiver's attorneys, $1,700. Total of credits claimed $35,133.50. The balance with which the receiver charges himself in his report is made up of the following items which are yet in his hands as receiver: Cash on hand $16,802.93: reserve for cases on appeal. $5,500; loans and discounts $421,793.03; due from Uniondale overdraft $1,010: overdrafts, $2,616.54: cash items $1 588 real estate $59,085. Total of balance chargable $508,395.93.

24. March 26, 1933 The Star Press Muncie, IN
Article from The Star Press, March 26, 1933

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BLUFFTON BANK RECEIVER QUITS Meyers Will Replace Stults. Bluffton, Ind., March Decker, of the Wells Circuit Court, this morning and cepted the resignation of Marris Stults as receiver for the defunct Wells County Bank, which filed by final report of the retiring after had accepted the resignation of Stults, announcement was made Judge Decker Frank Meyers, city, Stults. Bond Meyers placed $15,000. Meyers already was ceiver for the State Bank, and by offices working staffs of the two expenses operating each will curtailed. Served Four Years. Stults had served receiver of the County bank since March 1929, and in that time the bulk receipts could realized have been Distributions have been made to deposifor total of 32½ per cent their deposits, the last distribution per cent. totaling having authorized this week. Stults showed his final report assets to be turned over to his sucCash on hand, cash reserved of possible judgments appealed; loans discounts. $324,013; real estate and appraised inventory. $37,026: and overdraft, grand total of assets turned $449,813.29. Divide Into Four Wards. Members of the city council held meeting this for the purof taking action divide the city into four city wards, under the provisions act of the 1933 legislature. Heretofore the city has had only three wards. Barnard. Greenfield, who became here weeks after came here to Inspect the local Masonic was be taken to his home today. While patient in the here an He nicely Miss Lela Walser: South Main street. suffered torn in when she on an icy and fell her home.