06/08/2026
It's Member Monday and today we are spotlighting another of our active Member Participants - Artisans' Bank!!
Despite economic uncertainties and Civil War pressures, 10 men bravely proposed creating a bank for the working "Artisans" people. The founders contributed $4 each, totaling $40. They used $12 for a charter, 50 cents for a minute book, and the rest for stationery, leaving $1.93 as working capital. The charter was granted on February 28, 1861. Artisans' Savings Bank opened for business on April 1, 1861, at 117 Market Street in Wilmington, DE with William S. Hillis as the Bank's first president.
in 1865 having grown beyond expectations, the bank moved to a new headquarters at 602 Market Street to accommodate its growing customer base. In 1871, the bank purchased the historic Indian Queen Hotel on the corner of Fifth and Market Streets and built the Clayton House on this site. For many years, the Clayton House enjoyed the reputation of being one of the finest hotels in the East, with the Bank occupying offices on its first floor.
In 1996, The Bank's charter was modernized to meet future challenges. The word "Savings" was dropped from its name, and the products and services of Artisans' Bank grew and expanded to provide a full range of financial coverage for consumers, small businesses, and commercial customers.
In 2021, Artisans' Bank celebrated its 160th year of service to its customers and the communities, businesses, and residents of Delaware and the surrounding area. In addition, Elizabeth “Beth” Albano became the company's 12th President.
On May 7th, we celebrated our 14th year of partnership! We are proud of our partnership with Artisans' Bank and their rich history. Thank you for all that you do for our Active Duty, Guard & Reservists, Veterans, Military Families, and Civilians in your community and around the globe!
Association of Military Banks of America - AMBA
