St. Mary's Bank, recognized as the first credit union in the nation, proudly celebrates its 115th anniversary. On November 24, 1908, St. Mary's Bank was established as "La Caisse Populaire, Ste-Marie" (The People's Bank) in Manchester, New Hampshire, to assist Franco-American mill workers with saving and borrowing money.

This landmark anniversary symbolizes St. Mary's Bank's longstanding commitment to serving its community with innovative financial products and services. The credit union has been a steadfast proponent of community development and financial inclusivity, continually adapting to meet the evolving needs of its members.

Operating initially from a rent-free room in the home of its first president, Joseph Boivin, an all-volunteer staff conducted transactions during evening hours​. Over a century later, St. Mary's Bank continues to honor its storied history while maintaining its core values of trust, integrity, and service.

In 2023, St. Mary's Bank has grown from a small credit union in Manchester to a significant financial institution with 11 branches and a wide array of services. This growth underscores its enduring commitment to its founding principles and its members.

As St. Mary's Bank commemorates over a century of community-focused banking, it remains dedicated to its founding mission of empowering individuals and supporting the local community. The credit union looks forward to a future where it continues blending its rich heritage with modern banking practices to serve future generations.


St. Mary's Bank celebrates 115th anniversary on November 24, 2023