About Us
We have served the Elmore City community and surrounding areas for over 100 years.
At First State Bank, we are proud to be a “community” bank. Today the bank is still operating on the principles of solidarity and soundness instilled by its founders.
At First State Bank we believe our relationship with our customers is the most important part of banking. One advantage of banking with First State Bank is that deposit and loan decisions are made locally. So whether you are in the bank, on the phone or visiting our web site, you will always find knowledgeable, courteous and professional individuals to help you with all your banking needs.
Great service is about more than just competitive products and rates. It’s about knowing your name, understanding your needs, and making your banking experience as convenient as possible.
History
First State Bank’s founder was early day merchant J.P. Gibson, who arrived in Elmore City around the turn of the century.
1894
J.P. Gibson started a small store in the town that also housed the post office.
1902
He organized a “private bank” in Elmore City, originally called the Elmore Bank.
1903
Due to a great demand for a chartered bank, J.P. Gibson, with a group of citizens, organized the First State Bank. J.P. Gibson served as president. Directors were Dr. J.K. Lindsay, H.A. Bonified, Dr. C.L. Sullivan, Tom Grant, J.H. Terry and R.D. Grisham.
The new bank started with capital of $500.00.
1907
The bank was the recipient of the very first bank charter issued after Oklahoma statehood.
1917
Explosives were used in an attempted robbery of the First State Bank’s safe. The safe was shattered and a hole was blown in the old stone building.
The attempted robbery failed when no cash was found in the safe. The bank employees, warned in advance that the robbery might happen, had moved the cash to a safe place.
The bank has survived fire, droughts, floods, world wars, economic panics, depression and recession without a change in its steady growth.
First State Bank was built on the pioneer spirit of a growing community and a genuine desire to fully serve the financial needs of the people.
Its foundation is as strong as the rock of Gibraltar.
A prominent banker in Garvin County, speaking of the First State Bank
Board of Directors
| Name | Position |
|---|---|
| Richard E. Cobb | Chairman of the Board |
| Vicki Jones | Director |
| George G. Dale | Director |
| Nancy Warren | Director |
| James Drew Christensen | Director |
| J. Clay Christensen | Director |
| Kayli Christensen | Director |
| Adam Christensen | Advisory Director |
| Blake Christensen | Advisory Director |