How did Wells Fargo work in the 1800s?

In the last half of the 1800s, Wells Fargo’s network of hundreds of agents would take care of a customer’s personal or commercial business by commission. In the 1800s, the telegraph allowed Wells Fargo to help customers transfer money securely. To minimize risk, the company used a system of encryption with secret codes.

Why was Wells Fargo important in the 19th century?

Photo Credit: Wells Fargo Corporate Archives. In the 19th century, customers who wanted to transport their money and valuables securely turned to Wells Fargo. The company had built a reputation for taking safety seriously, and its stagecoaches carried gold, silver, and other valuables from one location to the next.

When did Wells Fargo Bank become a bank?

After two later mergers, the Wells Fargo Bank American Trust Company—shortened to the Wells Fargo Bank in 1962—became, and has remained, one of the biggest banking institutions in the United States. HISTORY.com works with a wide range of writers and editors to create accurate and informative content.