Ewen bank celebrates centennial

EWEN - The State Bank of Ewen is celebrating its 100th anniversary this month.

"We are a state-chartered bank founded in 1914 by 39 civic-minded citizens committed to promoting the future development of our community," CEO Bryan Kuehnl said.

The bank remains "committed to providing the community with hometown banking services," Kuehnl said. "The combination of local ownership, local decision-making and knowing each and every customer is at the heart of a community bank. Banking technology has changed considerably over the past 100 years, but our long-time philosophy of keeping customers first and giving back to the community has never changed," he said.

Kuehnl said the bank's lending and investment policies are designed to protect depositors and encourage local economic growth.

The bank opened in 1914 with total company assets of $58,000, according to Kuehnl. By the 50th anniversary, assets had grown to $4 million. Today, the asset base has grown to nearly $60 million.

"We are proud to be recognized as the strongest capitalized financial institution in the western Upper Peninsula, and one of the strongest in the state of Michigan," Kuehnl said. "This success could only have been accomplished through the support and loyalty of our customers."

Kuehnl thanked the customers and said it was "an honor and a privilege" to serve as CEO during the 100th anniversary year. "We must also remember the dedication of our board of directors, officers and staff, past and present, as without them our growth and success would not be possible," he said.

The bank is celebrating at its main office in Ewen and branch office in Bergland, having people register for various prizes to be given away Friday. Also on Friday, the bank will host a light lunch of hors d'oeuvres, cake and refreshments at the main office in Ewen from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.