Early Beginnings and Ties to Brewing

The story of National Capital Bank begins with the vision and enterprise of Albert Carry, a man whose influence shaped the foundation of both the brewing and banking industries in Washington, D.C. Before NCB's founding in 1889, Carry made his mark as a brewer and businessman.

In 1886 Albert Carry purchased Humphrey & Juenemann’s Brewery and Beer Garden. Five years later in 1891, Carry, alongside Robert Portner established the National Capital Brewing Company on Capitol Hill. The establishment of National Capital Brewing Company led Carry to sell Humphrey and Juenemann’s Brewery and Beer Garden in 1892. National Capital Brewing was a massive operation that occupied an entire city block and produced up to 100,000 barrels of beer annually. Carry was deeply involved in every aspect of the brewing business, from owning a farm in Suitland, Maryland, where he grew hops and bred horses, to managing innovative facilities like a state-of-the-art icehouse powered by steam engines. He even invested heavily in real estate, founding Albert Carry Properties to strategically place pubs and directly sell his products, eliminating middlemen. During prohibition the Carry family converted from brewing to Carry's Ice Cream Company with great success before selling the ice cream company in 1918.

The Founding of National Capital Bank (1889)

Beyond brewing, Albert Carry was a prominent figure in the community, participating in German fraternal societies and shaping the city's landscape through his real estate ventures. However, his entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there. Frustrated by the inconvenience of traveling to downtown Washington to deposit funds, Carry rallied local business leaders, including a Dairy Owner, Mr. Simpson, a Coal Operator, Mr. Herrill, and Real Estate Investor, Mr. Donohoe to establish a new bank closer to home. This endeavor led to the founding of The National Capital Bank of Washington in 1889, marking the beginning of a legacy that continues to this day.

Family Stewardship & Community-Centered Growth

Since its founding, the Didden family, proud descendants of Albert Carry, have been central to the leadership and legacy of National Capital Bank. George A. Didden Jr. (pictured), grandson of Albert Carry, exemplified this dedication as President and Chairman of the Board, guiding the bank with vision and integrity from 1943 to 1995. Over the course of his extraordinary 52-year tenure, he left an indelible mark on Washington’s banking community. Carrying forward his legacy, his four sons—George A. Didden III, Donald A. Didden, James M. Didden, and Richard A. Didden—each made their own significant contributions, holding various key roles within the bank and upholding its tradition of excellence. Across generations, the Didden family’s unwavering commitment and deep community engagement has seen the institution through pivotal moments, including the Great Depression and the 2008 financial crisis. Their enduring stewardship remains the foundation of National Capital Bank’s success and resilience.

National Capital Bank Today

Today, National Capital Bank stands as Washington, D.C.'s oldest bank, with four branches serving the DMV. NCB is dedicated to supporting local causes and offering comprehensive financial services. The bank’s original charter still hangs in its Pennsylvania Avenue second-floor boardroom, a testament to its long-standing legacy. The site of the former brewery is now occupied by a Safeway at 14th Street and Kentucky Avenue SE, yet NCB’s historical roots and dedication to the community remain strong. Through initiatives like its community fund for local non-profits, NCB continues to uphold its commitment to the community and remains a trusted financial institution woven into the city’s history. Pictured is National Capital Bank President and CEO, Jimmy Olevson.

The Early History of NCB

- National Capital Brewing Co. Horse and Carriage
- National Capital Brewing Co. Employees
- National Capital Brewing Co. Beer Label
- Carry's Ice Cream Label
- Inside National Capital Bank's First Branch
- NCB's Founding Family - Didden Brothers