More Than a Bank: The History of a Thomas Landmark

The town of Thomas, West Virginia, has a rich history and a strong sense of community. While many people know Thomas for its coal-mining and lumber industries, the town's history goes far beyond the industries that helped build it. The historic buildings that line its streets tell their own stories about the people who lived, worked, and built their lives here.

Looking at historical photographs of Thomas, it is easy to see just how much the town has changed over the years. During its industrial heyday, Thomas and the surrounding area were home to thousands of people, with the population reaching more than 5,000. Families came here to find work, businesses opened their doors, and a community grew around the industries that shaped the region.

Like many former coal and lumber towns, Thomas and neighboring Davis experienced difficult times as these industries declined. By the 2000s, both communities had seen their populations fall significantly, with fewer than 500 residents in each town. Today, however, Thomas is finding new life. Visitors are returning to explore its history, walk its streets, and learn about the buildings that have stood here for generations. People are interested not only in the history of coal and lumber but also in the stories behind the town's historic architecture.

One building that helps tell this story is the old bank building, which continues to serve the community today. The first floor is home to the Adventure Guild, the second floor houses the Friends of Blackwater offices, and the third floor is currently unoccupied. Although its purpose has changed over the years, the building remains an important part of Thomas's historic streetscape.

A Building Rebuilt by Fire

The story of the old bank building takes us back to the early 1900s. In 1901, a major fire swept through Thomas, destroying many of the town's buildings, including the original building occupied by Miners and Merchants Bank.