The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
by Bonnie Johnson for The Quill
Charles Johnson operated the Stronghurst Building and Loan along with the Stronghurst Mutual Insurance Agency on Main Street in Stronghurst.
The Stronghurst Building and Loan negotiated loans for purchasing homes.
In 1974 Monmouth Savings and Loan Association merged with Stronghurst Building and Loan and the resulting financial institution was called Security Savings and Loan Association.
Ralph Whiteman, of Monmouth was the President. The business remained in the office of Charlie Johnson until 1978, when a new building was completed located just south of Jacobs' Hardware.
Savings accounts, certificate of deposits and home loans were offered at the new location at the corner of Nichols and Broadway. When the new location was opened, Jess Rehm, Branch Manager, and Donna Lefler operated the day-to-day operations.
Soon after opening the new location, checking accounts, retirement, and auto loans were added to the products and services.
In 1990, Ralph Whiteman retired and Stan Jenks became President and CEO. Jenks remains in that position today. In 1996, Jesse Rehm retired and Donna Lefler became Branch manager until her retirement in 2004. At the present time Jennifer Ewing is Branch Officer Manager.
In 1994 Security Savings and Loan Association became Security Savings Bank as a result of a charter change to a savings bank. Business and Agricultural loans and services were added to the list of products and services during the "90s.
"Throughout the years, there have been many invaluable people working at Security Savings Bank," said Jenks. "Currently we have Jennifer, Jodi Burg, DeAnn Waller, Mel Roth, Connie Booton and Pam Stevenson taking care of the Stronghurst operations. The Stronghurst facility has grown in products and services, customers, and a building addition in 1998. The community has been very supportive of this bank and this area is full of people who take great pride in their community."
"I think Henderson County and Warren County are good places to live and raise families. Today, our society is very mobile, but we must continue to work in building jobs to attract our young people and provide opportunities for them to stay in this area if they choose to do so."
Jenks went on to say, "There have been many changes over the years in the banking business. We are in a highly regulated industry that requires well-trained staff and technology to deliver our products and service. One thing that hasn't changed, however, is the importance of relationships in banking. Security Savings Bank appreciates the trust and support of the community and looks forward to serving in the future."
From left is Jennifer Ewing, Mel Roth, Jodi Burg, and DeAnn Waller. (not pictured is Connie Booton and Pam Stevenson who work at the Stronghurst office.)