25 1897 and realized 30% to 40% more per bushel in the sale of wheat, improving and strengthening their condition. In evidence of this improvement, President Moore informed them that deposits were over $100,000 while the demands for loans were not as great as the bank had experienced a year ago. Two views may be drawn from this statement. First, that the people are not satisfied that the present time is a safe one for making investments and second, that they are less in debt and have no immediate plans for the surplus they realized from their crops.” Also in 1898, Bank of Clarke County joined the Virginia Bankers Association in Richmond, Virginia. The Board accepted the resignation of Mr. Barnett on January 5, 1899 and welcomed back Mr. M. W. Jones. Compensation was reviewed and a decision was made to pay each Board member $15 for each occasion of their auditing services and to examine the accounts of the Cashier quarterly. Mr. R. W. Hardesty and Mr. John B Neill were reimbursed $20 for their services as examiners up to that time. In April 1899, news was received that a barroom was being proposed two doors from the bank. The Cashier was instructed to pay A. Moore, Attorney, $4 for resisting the application. Mr. Moore was empowered to resist any efforts on the part of anyone to obtain a license to sell liquor during the coming year. He was successful in his efforts. In November of 1899, Mr. Hardesty resigned as director and Assistant Cashier. 1900 saw the introduction of water service into the bank, along with the installation of spigots and water bowls. Mr. Wood declined to be re-appointed as a director in January of 1901 due to feeble health. Mr. William Albert Bradford, 39 year-old native of Clarke County, was nominated to fill Mr. Wood’s vacancy. On September 19, 1901, the Bank closed during the hour of service at the Episcopal Church in memory of assassinated President William McKinley. In 1902, Captain Nunn was made a director replacing Mr. Neill. After just a few short months, Capt. Nunn found it necessary to resign due to health reasons, prompting a Board resolution commending one of the original employees of the bank: Resolved that the Board accepts with sincere regret the resignation of Capt. J. R. Nunn, who from the date of the organization of the bank has been its Cashier, and who by strict and zealous attention to and efficient discharge of the responsible duties of the position gave confidence to the public in the safety and stability of the bank, and contributed as much, if not more than anyone else, to the successful establishment and continued maintenance of the institution. His enforced retirement, by reason of his ill health, loses to the bank, its stockholders and the public a faithful, efficient and honest officer. Advertising in the local newspaper during this time cost $10 for six months with a renewal price of $5 for an additional six months. Legal holiday notices