Visit Ossian State Bank's History Album

The history of Ossian State Bank has been consistently good. Our history begins with the Farmers State Bank here in Ossian which was chartered November 1, 1912 and opened for business November 2, 1912. Shortly after beginning business, the Farmers State Bank purchased the Bank of Ossian, which had been in operation since 1902. On November 29, 1912, the banks were consolidated.

The Farmers State Bank contributed its services in the bond sales campaigns during the World War I and continued its services in the banking field during the years of adjustment following the war. During the middle 1920's, there were twelve banks serving Wells County. Only three banks remained in the county after the depression: the Farmers State Bank - Ossian, the Farmers and Merchants Bank - Bluffton, and the Old First National Bank - Bluffton.

In accordance with the then existing law, banking corporations were required to be rechartered each twenty years. On October 19, 1932, a new charter was issued to Ossian State Bank. All assets and liabilities of the former bank were assumed by the newly chartered bank, and on October 24, 1932 it opened for business under the new name.

Following the Bank holiday declared by the President in March 1933 and the revising of many banking law regulations, the bank became a member of the FDIC. At that time, deposits were insured up to $5,000.00. This current law provides a maximum of $100,000.00 insurance. In 1948, the bank instituted a remodeling program by installing modern fixtures, lighting, acoustical ceiling, tile flooring, a new glass door, and an air conditioning unit.

Due to constant growth and increasing population of the Ossian area, the realization to the Ossian State Bank directors and officers realized expansion would be necessary. By 1970, the bank was actively exploring expansion plans. It appeared that the bank could best serve the area by staying in the downtown area. To do this, the bank purchased the former Hunter Supply - Ossian Hardware and Supply building and the former Bowman Garage which were adjacent to the bank. They also purchased the property at the corner of Mill Street and Metts Street for employee parking.

After 65 years of service, Ossian State Bank expanded with a new facility in 1977. Just 18 years later, the continuing growth of the Ossian area had once again brought the need for expansion to the Ossian State Bank.

In 1994, the Ossian State Bank held ground breaking ceremonies to launch another significant expansion to the bank's facilities. This expansion, which doubled the size of the bank, allowed easier access to a larger lobby as well as additional drive-thru windows and a drive-up ATM.

The expansion was completed in 1995. It doubled the size of the bank building and now includes a 4,000 square foot basement and an additional 6,700 square foot on the main floor. The new entrance is on the east side of the building and is accompanied by an expanded parking lot with a capacity of 35 automobiles.

In 1998, Ossian State Bank opened a second location on the north edge of Bluffton. This new branch was built to better serve the Bluffton community and allow Ossian customers added convenience in the Bluffton area.

With the exponential development of the current information age and the popularity of the World Wide Web and Internet, it was clear that Ossian State Bank must take another step to better fit our customers. On April 1, 2000, Ossian State Bank took a large step with its initial presence on the Internet. Ossian State Bank now offers e-mail communication and an informational website for existing and potential Ossian State Bank customers.

Ossian State Bank will continue to enhance this website, offer new services, and look ahead. It is proof of our commitment to Wells County and surrounding areas and our belief in a bright future. Ossian State Bank, its Board of Directors, management, and staff appreciate all that our customers have done for us, and we strive to return the loyalty and support with continued excellence in service.

Ossian State Bank, we're growing...
thanks to you.