Remembering Miami Pioneer Ed Romfh

Pioneer Edward C. Romfh was a member of Miami's first city commission, former mayor and most notably founder of the First National Bank of Miami.

Miami City Commission in 1921. Ed Romfh in the middle.

Those who took a chance on the fledgling city of Miami in the late 1890s understood that the municipality offered boundless opportunity but required versatility. From prior to incorporation until the start of the Twentieth Century, pioneers came to Miami seeking prospects to make a name for themselves. Edward C. Romfh was exactly the type of pioneer who applied his versatility and capitalized on the opportunity offered by a young city. In doing so, he is remembered with reverence in the lore of Miami’s early history.

Romfh served as bank president, city commissioner, mayor and the municipality’s calming influence during difficult times. While he had to ward off multiple runs on his bank, Romfh relied on his fiscally conservative business practices to survive financial meltdowns. During a period when others got caught up in what seemed like unfettered growth and prosperity, Romfh stuck to his principles. When he was mayor of the city during unprecedented expansion followed by disaster, Romfh’s restraint and cool demeanor helped provide leadership during trying times. He was truly a pioneer in both spirit and accomplishment.