Local bank turns 100

By Staff
John Hicks
FCT Staff Writer
Citizens Bank, one of the oldest institutions in Franklin County, celebrated its 100th anniversary this week with a number of ceremonies, exhibits and special treats for the public.
"There aren't many companies that have been around for a hundred years, and we're delighted to say that we're one of them," said Citizens Bank President and CEO Dennis Upchurch. "If the founders could see what we've grown to now, they'd really be amazed."
Upchurch credited past bank officials and employees for laying a solid foundation for Citizens Bank's current success, and stressed the importance of friendly, hometown service to the bank's growth.
A sizable number of the bank's depositors have been customers for several decades.
"Today we're having a celebration for more than a 100 customers who have been with the bank for 50 years or more," Upchurch said Wednesday.
Those who visited the main branch in Russellville this week were treated to a special museum exhibit that featured the bank's original account ledger from 1906.
"What we've done is take some things from the last 100 years and put them on display here in the lobby," said Dana Thomas, Citizens Bank marketing director.
"We have an old desk that was used by Foster Gavin, officer and director of the bank from 1906 until 1968," said Thomas. "We also have the gun and some of the ammunition that Mr. Gavin used for security in the original bank."
Archival photographs that document the history of the Russellville-based bank were also on display. The exhibit will remain on view for several more weeks.
Today, administrators and employees will be dressed in period costumes that represent the many different kinds of styles that have come and gone during the history of Citizens Bank. Refreshments will be served at all branch locations.
A "ribbon re-cutting" to mark the beginning of the bank's next 100 years is scheduled for 1 p.m. this afternoon at the Russellville Main Branch, followed by horse and buggy rides until 4 p.m.
"Friday's celebration will feature something for everybody," said Upchurch. "Of course, we'll also be conducting business as usual," he added with a chuckle.
Citizens Bank was incorporated on Feb. 28, 1906. In 1939, the offices of the Tennessee Valley Bank and Citizens Bank and Savings Company were merged. Citizens Bank was the only bank in Russellville that remained solvent during the Great Depression.
The bank continues to grow and expand its service base. With 22 branch locations in Alabama, Tennessee and Mississippi, more than 270 employees, and more than $760,000,000 in assets, it has become one of the largest community banks in the state.