March 20, 2008
Honoring Hen: Maggie L. Walker
Maggie L. Walker was the first woman in United States history to charter and serve as president of a bank. In 1903, she chartered the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank in Richmond, Virginia. Her goal in organizing the bank was to enable community members to help each other by pooling their money together. When the Depression hit, Maggie orchestrated the merger of several banks and again took the reins to restore the bank to success.
In addition to her historic role as bank president, she also worked tirelessly as an activist for education and racial equality. Even after her health began to deteriorate, Maggie pressed on, serving on numerous boards and committees devoted to her causes.
“Have hope, have faith, have courage, and carry on.” — Maggie L. Walker
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