Bank Of The West

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About

Our history shows that great things can happen when you keep your focus local.

In 1874, Bank of the West opened its doors on the California frontier as Farmers National Gold Bank. One of just 10 banks nationwide authorized to issue paper currency backed by gold reserves, the San Jose bank helped people build homes, finance farms, and grow their businesses.

Over the years, we grew bigger and reached beyond our hometown roots. Customers entrusted us with their money, we continued to provide great service, protect deposits and lend prudently to the growing communities we served. In 1880, Farmers National Gold Bank became First National Bank of San Jose.

Careful management and sound banking practices allowed the bank to contribute to the Bay Area's growth through the 1906 earthquake, the Great Depression, and two World Wars. Following World War II, the bank grew rapidly and by 1979 had 35 San Francisco Bay Area locations and $350 million in assets.