A Brief History of the First National Bank of Arenzville
The First National Bank of Arenzville has been a strong and stable presence in the West Central Illinois Banking Community since it was first established as the “People’s Bank of Arenzville” in 1882. The bank was privately held until 1908 when it was granted a national charter and officially became “The First National Bank of Arenzville.” The bank is so well established in this area that today many of our stockholders and customers are descendants of the original shareholders.
First National Bank Building dedication, circa 1963
The 20th Century was a tumultuous time for the banking industry. The stock market crash of 1929 and the Great Depression that followed forced many banks to close completely. Thanks to sound management and strong support from our customers, The First National Bank of Arenzville weathered that financial storm without incident. The Bank was never closed to business except for the government mandated bank moratorium of 1933.
Traditionally, The First National Bank of Arenzville serviced primarily agricultural clients throughout the region. We still have a strong base of farmers and a unique understanding of the needs of the farming community. But, our directors and management have always understood that growth means change and diversification. In order to keep The First National Bank of Arenzville strong the decision was made to branch out into surrounding population centers. That’s why, in 2000, The First National Bank of Arenzville added a branch on South Main Street in South Jacksonville, IL.
The South Jacksonville Branch has developed into a strong and dynamic banking center serving both South Jacksonville and the region. The South Jacksonville Branch has been able to offer outstanding residential mortgage products and great checking and savings options for banking customers in the area. The South Jacksonville Branch proved to be SO popular that, in 2009, the decision was made to grow again.
The First National Bank branch at the corner of Massey and Morton in Jacksonville was opened in September of 2009. The location has been an outstanding success. Once banking customers in Jacksonville discovered true “home town” banking with all of the services of the regional and national banks, they quickly became First National Bank customers.
We hope you’ll consider becoming a part of the First National Bank of Arenzville Banking Family. We’re locally owned and locally operated. We understand the unique economic climate of the area and we pride ourselves on friendly, personal service. Find out what it means to experience “Blue Diamond Service from Your Hometown Team.”
