Buckeye State Bank has a long history of serving Logan County.
Formed in 1885, the Citizens Bank of DeGraff served the community through the Great Depression, the Great Recession, and many decades in between. With the oldest surviving state bank charter in the state of Ohio, the company has been proudly serving the Logan County area for more than 100 years.
After being purchased in 2014, the bank underwent a name change to Buckeye State Bank. That name change reflected the beginning of a new chapter, offering members in all of Ohio the “big bank” products and services with local decision-making and exceptional service.
When asked “what makes Buckeye State Bank special?” staff members related that building relationships are at the heart of the operation. It has never been more apparent then over the past year, when so many individuals experienced hardship during the pandemic and the bank was open for business and ready to serve in an hour of need.
“It’s what we have always done,” said Cheryl Ryan, manager of the DeGraff office. “Our focus is on delivering the products and services our members want, while our local roots and accountability ensure our interests remain tied to our neighbors here in Logan County.”
Buckeye State Bank works closely with the community by remaining on their corner and in their corner. They have continued to serve an area that is being abandoned by larger banking institutions.
When visiting the branch at 101 N. Main St. in downtown DeGraff, customers will be reminded of banking the way it used to be.
Bank representatives are behind the counter, ready to answer questions and help customers navigate financial needs. At the same time, Buckeye State Bank still has available all of the modern conveniences of larger banking corporations, including online banking and a convenient banking mobile app.
In September 2021, the company was awarded a 5-star Superior rating by BauerFinacial Inc, an independent bank research firm. A 5-Star rating indicates that Buckeye State Bank is one of the strongest financial institutions in the nation.
Karen L. Dorway, president of BauerFinancial, recognizes that, “As market conditions continue to change, banking institutions must be adept enough to evolve with them. With Buckeye State Bank’s stellar financial condition and track record we have no doubt in its ability to do so.”
Shawn Keller, Buckeye State Bank president, said this superior rating is an achievement to be proud of in the company’s long-time history.
“We are grateful to receive this recognition from one of the leading rating agencies, BauerFinancial. It’s a noteworthy milestone in the continued journey of Buckeye State Bank as we continue to build a leading community bank centered on delivering excellence to our clients and shareholders.”
In an era where bigger is not always better, Buckeye State Bank strives to reflect the pride, honesty and hard work ethics Buckeyes are known for.
The DeGraff branch is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday. The branch can be reached at (937) 585-4301, and the bank’s website is www.joinbsb.com.