Partner Background

The First National Bank of Sonora was organized by E.R. Jackson in 1900, only 10 years after Sonora became a town. The move to organize a bank was deemed foolhardy by some who had already seen two financial institutions fail. A building committee was appointed. The contract for construction of the building was given to B.F. Bellows plans for the building having been drawn by Oscar O. Rufini. The stonework was done by John Swinburn. Because of the slight delay in completing construction of the building, the bank opened for business on August 15, 1900, in the office of Mr. Vander Stucken’s general store, staying there a few days and then going to the Hagerlund Brothers’ store for two or three more weeks until the new building was completed. The cost of the structure was $2,500.00.

The First National Bank of Sonora / San Angelo Banking Center / Boerne Banking Center, today is collectively known as Sonora Bank and continues to be a family-owned community bank with many of the descendants of the original Board of Directors serving on the current Board. They are Ronald Cox, Edwin E. Sawyer III, Ben Pool, Israel Pena, Besa Martin, Jamie Akin, and Bob Malone.

The Directors and Staff strive to fulfill our mission of “Providing Excellent, Professional Financial Services in a Hometown Atmosphere”.

Project Summary

Texan by Nature’s team is working with Sonora Bank to explore expanded opportunities for conservation in communities where Sonora Bank employees live and work, as well as telling the story of the incredible work already being done.

Sonora Bank is proud to share they completed the installation of the bank’s first electric vehicle charging station, located at the Wimberley Branch. Drivers can use the station to power up electric vehicles, free of charge, and also enjoy free wifi while they wait.

“Since 1900, Sonora Bank has supported local values while embracing innovation,” said Bob Malone, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Sonora Bank. “The new charging station in Wimberley is not only an investment to help improve the quality of life in the Wimberley community, but also supports our values and desire to reduce our environmental footprint in the communities we serve.”

Sonora Bank partnered with ChargePoint, the world’s largest electric vehicle charging network with the most complete portfolio of charging stations available today, to install the ChargePoint Express 250. The unit, designed for long-distance trips, is built to fast charge current and next-generation electric cars, buses, and trucks.“Being good stewards of our land and environment is a belief we hold to our core at Sonora Bank,” said Josh Smith, Vice President, and Wimberley Branch Manager. “With the growth in popularity of electric vehicles, due to the reduced emissions and lower maintenance costs, we are pleased to offer those who drive these cars the ability to stop in a safe location while traveling and charge their vehicles for free.”