When was free checking account offered for the first time?

Question

Today "Free checking account" is kind of given. However, I believe, it wasn't always like that. So, I'm curious, which bank and when offered free checking account for the first time?

Answer 1

It was many years ago, when I opened my first checking accounts waaaayyy back in the early 70s there were no charges or fees involved. Most of those evolved in the 80's when banks saw new opportunities to create a profit center. Deregulation of certain aspects of banking probably contributed as well.