The National Association of Federal Credit Unions (NAFCU) kicks off the credit union industry’s centennial anniversary celebration.with exhibit at America’s Credit Union Museum.

WASHINGTON — Credit union leaders from around the country will gather in Manchester, N.H., on June 4 to dedicate the National Association of Federal Credit Unions (NAFCU) exhibit at America’s Credit Union Museum and kick off the credit union industry’s centennial anniversary celebration.

“This museum showcases the credit union industry’s importance to our country,” said NAFCU President Fred Becker. “That is why it was so significant to kick off the centennial celebration of credit unions as we dedicate the NAFCU exhibit. The anniversary underscores the integral role credit unions have played in promoting thrift and prosperity throughout this nation’s history.”

America’s Credit Union Museum is located at the site of the first credit union in the nation, St. Mary’s Bank. St. Mary’s was established in 1908 in Manchester, N.H., to afford American textile workers access to credit and savings.

Recently, a House resolution recognizing the 100-year anniversary of the establishment of St. Mary’s and thus the birth of the American credit union, was introduced by Reps. Carol Shea-Porter, D-N.H., and Paul Hodes, D-N.H. The resolution was sought by NAFCU.

The resolution, H.Res.1145, recognizes that “credit unions have consistently carried on the traditions set by St. Mary’s and exemplified the American values of thrift, self-help and volunteerism, carving out a special place for themselves among the nation’s financial institutions.”

“We are gratified by the introduction of this resolution by Reps. Shea-Porter and Hodes. It demonstrates their appreciation of credit unions’ contributions,” added Becker.

NAFCU is the only national organization that focuses exclusively on federal issues affecting credit unions, representing its members before the federal government and the public.