Joshua Morrison/Mount Vernon News
Members of the People’s Bank, Upper Gilchrist Road, plant a dogwood tree to commemorate the bank’s 100th anniversary. Pictured from left are Claude Gates, Alicia Freeman and Dustin Buckingham. A memorial stone was completed by Ralston Art Memorial. [request]
GAMBIER – Founded in 1920, The Peoples Bank of Gambier is a small community bank located in Knox County. Since first opening their doors 100 years ago, the bank has evolved with Knox County and the rapidly changing banking industry.
The bank, which was originally capitalized with $25,000 and 95 shareholders, is still comparatively small, and is proud to compete with much larger banks, while keeping its local presence.
Originally located on the campus of Kenyon College, the bank needed to keep up with modern banking needs and built their current home on Wiggin Street in 1998. The original building was sold to the university and is honored for its history.
“As I reflect on our centennial milestone, I am filled with gratitude for all that we have accomplished, the journey we have taken and the plans we have for a successful future,” said Alicia Freeman, president of The Peoples Bank. “Our scenery may be a little different these days as the decor, paint colors and carpet have changed, but our commitment to be a bank for the people has never wavered.”
Proud of its history, The Peoples Bank recently changed its slogan to “Strong Roots Last a Lifetime: Rooted in Gambier Since 1920.” To celebrate the bank’s strong foundation, the bank planted a tree Friday at the Mount Vernon East location. The tree will act as a symbol for banks strong roots and continued growth for the next 100 years to come.
In addition, The Peoples Bank is inviting community members to celebrate this anniversary by participating in two contests. Recognizing the current global health crisis, these contests will comply with social distancing guidelines, allowing for all customers and friends of the bank to feel comfortable participating.
The Peoples Bank has created a special 100th anniversary coloring page for a coloring contest to engage the community. Participants can submit their entries through the drive-thru or by commenting with a photo of their artwork on the contest announcement post on Facebook. The best adult entry and the best child entry will each win a prize.
The coloring page is available to download and print at home. Participants can also pick up a page through the drive-thru of all three of The Peoples Bank locations.
The contest runs May 26 to June 27. Winners will be announced no later than June 30.
The People’s Bank will also be hosting a “Penny Guessing Contest” on Facebook and at the bank. After viewing a jar of pennies, participants can submit their guesses as to how many pennies are in the jar for a chance to win a prize. A photo of the jar will be posted on Facebook on July 1 and the contest will run through July 18.
For more information about The Peoples Bank, visit www.peoplesgambier.com or the bank’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/peoplesgambier/
