First National Bank changes name to Clear Fork Bank today
Beginning today, June 1, 2023, First National Bank Albany/Breckenridge has a new name: Clear Fork Bank, N.A.
The bank will continue to operate under the same ownership, leadership and staff at its six branches. According to a news release, the new name was chosen to differentiate the bank in the marketplace and provide flexibility as it expands. The name “Clear Fork” represents the tributary of the Brazos River, where the bank was established in 1883 and the broad range of products and services it offers.
“Our bank has been in the Texas Big Country for 140 years, and we’ve served many families for generations,” said Tim Cooper, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Clear Fork Bank. “While our moniker is changing to reflect the bank’s history, distinguish us among similarly named ‘First State’ entities, and poise us for future growth, our independence, culture and commitment to local communities remain steadfast.”
While the name changes, the bank’s independence, culture, and commitment to local communities remain steadfast, the news release states. Customers will experience continuity in ownership and operations during and after the name transition.
The bank was first organized in 1883 as The First National Bank of Albany, according to information on the company’s website. In 1989, the bank acquired banks in Gordon and Strawn, and in 1990 acquired Team Bank (Texas American Bank) in Breckenridge. The name of the bank was changed to First National Bank Albany/Breckenridge. In 2016, the company opened a banking center in Abilene and in 2022 added a sixth bank in Mineral Wells.
In the future, the bank plans to enhance products and services, balancing modern banking practices with the needs of small-town Texans.
“Clear Fork Bank prides itself on its role in regional communities as one of the oldest banks in the state of Texas. As a leading family-owned financial institution with $770 million in assets, Clear Fork Bank offers personal and business customers investment services, checking and savings products, and various loans up to $20 million with a personal banking approach,” the news release states.
The Breckenridge bank building has been undergoing renovations for the past couple of months to repair the roof and other parts of the building that were damaged in the 2022 hailstorm. The current work has involved replacing the roof, the heating and air conditioning units, and the metal around the second floor and the roof. Click here to read the Breckenridge Texan’s previous article about the renovations.
