By K.J. Schricker
Reporter, Carbon County Comet
In a world where businesses come and go, some institutions stand the test of time. RNB Bank has been a cornerstone of stability in Carbon County for 125 years, and it doesn’t look like it’s slowing down anytime soon.
Founded in 1899, Rawlins National Bank first opened its doors in the Murphy Wright Building at 5th and Front streets, later relocating to the Osborne Building on Cedar Street. For those with a keen eye, the bank’s original alarm still clings to the building, a relic of its long history. Today, RNB calls Buffalo and 5th its home.
RNB’s journey is one of growth and endurance. In the hustle of the 1980s, the bank strengthened its capital and entered the 1990s with a bang, acquiring Progressive Federal. In 2008, RNB expanded into Longmont, Colorado, and more recently, opened a Winter Park Loan Services branch. Today, RNB boasts $20 million in capital, serving communities across Wyoming and beyond.
Gone are the days when tellers sat behind wrought iron bars, armed with a pistol to guard the cash. The bank has evolved, surviving wars, financial upheavals, and more to become the friendly, modern institution it is today, offering state-of-the-art services to its loyal customers.
To mark its 125th anniversary, RNB hosted an open house on October 17. Throughout the month, visitors were treated to weekly prize drawings, and every guest received a ticket for a chance to win at the Rawlins or Hanna branches. The celebration wasn’t just for grown-ups; kids got in on the action too, stamping commemorative checks with a “Paid” stamp as keepsakes. And if you timed your visit just right, you might have caught a glimpse of the RNB staff dancing and cheering, a fitting tribute to their bank’s century-plus of success.
The Carbon County Museum joined in on the festivities, showcasing a display from RNB’s rich 125-year history.
Here’s to RNB Bank—may the next 125 years be just as bright.
