History of The Bank of Fincastle

Chartered in 1875, The Bank of Fincastle was a reincarnation of the Farmer's Bank of Fincastle, which collapsed in the 1860s along with the Confederate States of America. One of only 52 banks operating statewide in 1885, The Bank of Fincastle probably began in a one-story brick building on Main Street between the old post office and where "Stoner's Store" stood. The present Fincastle headquarters was constructed in 1908 at a cost of $4373. In 1969, the bank opened its first branch in Daleville, followed by branches in Blue Ridge, Troutville, and Cloverdale. The Bedford branch opened in 2005.

The true history of The Bank of Fincastle is a history of people. A strong local identity and continuity of leadership have made the bank an integral part of family and business life in our community. There have been only six presidents in the history of the bank. The second president, Turner McDowell served for 43 years; current president John F. Kilby has served since 1982. It is said the bank's first vice-president, Mr. S. B. Smith, kept a diary so detailed and accurate, including births and deaths, that it served as proof of events not otherwise publicly recorded. That interest in people continues today, with educational programs such as StudentSave and the Breckinridge Partnership, and community service projects like the Fall 5K and 10K races.

Today, The Bank of Fincastle offers all the benefits of a full-service bank, yet it's the special relationship between bank employees and customers that continues to set it apart. Our heritage is personal commitment. That's a value that never goes out of style.