Past, Present and Future – Braham Office

Sound and dependable banking service, which has served Braham and its area as a constructive force through many years, is the contribution the First National Bank of Braham has made in Braham's progress.

The First National Bank of Braham was established on August 29, 1899. S.S. Peterson, Charles Keith, D.O. Anderson, Hans Engberg, H.J. Gouldberg and L. C. Danielson were the first board members. Three individuals who served the bank in a long-term capacity in years to follow were John A. Monson, Vice President; Severin Mattson, Director; and P.J. Engberg, cashier.

Oscar Olson, Sr., who has guided the bank's fortunes and, incidentally, much of the community's business as well, for many years, first worked in the Braham bank from 1895 to 1905. He then moved to Max, N.D., where he had charge of the First National Bank until 1919. On April 13, he and P.J. Engberg bought out Fred Soderberg who had headed the First National Bank here in Braham. John Monson was Vice President at that time and directors were Mr. Monson, Mr. Engberg, Severin Mattson and Dr. Charles Swenson.

Mr. Olson served as President from 1919 on and his sons entered the banking service to work with him. In 1945, the building to the south of the bank was purchased and set up as a special insurance department with George Olson in charge, continuing the insurance business which the bank has conducted since its inception. The bank's personnel consisted of ten, with Hans Baustian and Robert Nelson on call to show real estate to prospective buyers.

In 1959, its officers were Oscar A. Olson, chairman; Oscar A. Olson, Jr., president; Emma Olson, vice president; George A. Olson, vice president and manager in charge of insurance; T.Z. Marshall, cashier; L.S. Lindblad, assistant cashier; and Norman R. Nelson, assistant cashier. Directors were Beauford Johnson and the four members of the Olson family.

On June 1, 1960, the bank moved into a new building directly across the street. George A. H. Olson purchased the bank in 1962. The charter was changed from the First National Bank of Braham to the First State Bank of Braham in October, 1962. George stayed in the bank for 30 years before retiring.

Oscar A. Olson, Sr., faithfully served the Braham bank until death in 1969. It appeared that his favorite activity was promoting Braham area real estate. He thoroughly enjoyed bringing to Braham prospective land buyers and showing them some of the best property in this part of the state. He was regularly found taking people to coffee at the Park Caf and regaling the benefits of owning property and living in the Braham area.

In 1974, the bank was purchased by the Carl Pohlad organization. Oscar (Sonny) Olson, Jr., served as president until his retirement on December 31, 1984. Sonny devoted 52 years to the banking business. Succeeding Oscar was Leonard S. Lindblad, who served in his capacity until January 1988. At that time he became vice chairman of the Board of Directors and Scott E. Laugen was elected President/CEO.

On November 15, 1988, the bank was purchased by Frandsen Financial Corporation of Forest Lake, Minnesota. Leonard S. Lindblad, after 41 years of service, retired from banking on December 31, 1988. Dennis Cunningham became bank president on April 2, 1989. The bank's name was changed from First State Bank of Braham to Rural American Bank - Braham in April 1989.

Today we have 11 full time employees who's top priority is to provide you with the highest level of service possible. We are proud to be a community bank that builds relationships with our customers and takes the time to know you and understand your financial needs. We are continually seeking ways to meet the needs of our current customers and attract new relationships.

Our future is you. While Internet Banking, Convenience Line and our ATM provide you 24 hour banking 7 days a week, our employees will still answer the phone and be available in person to continue to serve you. Our experienced staff is capable and ready to help you with your banking.  

Then, Now and Always – Pine City Office

Established in 1896, the First National Bank of Pine City has been a cornerstone of our community. We enjoy serving our community by building lasting customer relationships and by exceeding customer expectations with our friendly, professional and experienced staff. Our commitment has always been to provide quality products and services. While you are here, browse our website for a description of our progressive array of product and service offerings. Or, stop in and visit with one of our dedicated team members. Serving our customers and community…Then, Now & Always.