The Germantown Community Bank was established in 1922 by local leaders in order to serve the local businesses and residents. It thrived throughout the years, never closing, even during the Great Depression, until 1988. Its customers included African Americans and women entrepreneurs, and farmers. It made loans to farmers and customers and acted as a financial arm of the local mill, the local store, and the local automobile dealership. The manager knew every customer by name, even the ones out of the area including Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. It was the commercial heart of the community and its history demonstrates how a community worked in the early 20th century.; supported by the community; have all records; served black and white people, women, etc.