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150 Years

Celebrating one and a half centuries as South Dakota's original bank.

That's a First!

First Dakota National Bank became the first fully chartered bank in the Dakota Territory when it opened its doors in 1872. For 150 years, we've sought to support local dreams and communities with dependable banking. And we've built some incredible relationships along the way. That's why we're dedicating 2022 to the countless customers who have trusted First Dakota all these years.

2022 Ford F150

Ford F-150® Giveaway

Nominate a deserving person or organization to win a new pickup. There's just something about the number 150...

Nominate Now
Dakota Thirst and Cash Flow Beer Cans

Brand New Brews

Check out two new beers made with South Dakota ingredients. Every purchase benefits the South Dakota Community Foundation.

Explore Beers

Giving Back in Big Ways

For every can of Dakota Thirst & Cash Flow purchased this year, First Dakota is donating $1 to the South Dakota Community Foundation's Stronger Communities Fund. The Stronger Communities Fund was created by First Dakota National Bank to help South Dakota communities thrive and prosper, regardless of their size, resources or history.

Deadlines for grant applications are March 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31. Applications are reviewed quarterly, and if approved, awards will be granted within six weeks of application deadlines. Anyone can apply, but priority will be given to those communities with a First Dakota presence.

Apply Today

Through the Decades

We've covered a lot of ground together in 150 years, and we're grateful to have partnered with thousands of South Dakotans along the way. Here are just a few of our favorite memories.

1872

First first fully chartered bank in the Dakota Territory

We opened our doors in a small town that would eventually become Yankton, South Dakota.

1875

A New Building

In 1875, the First National Bank established itself in a new building on the southwest corner of Third and Walnut Streets in Yankton. Through the years, many of Yankton’s major financial decisions – especially those affecting the steam boating industry – were made at the site.

1931

Consolidation For The Future

Two of Yankton’s pioneer financial institutions – The First National Bank and Trust Company and the Dakota National Bank – consolidated into First Dakota National Bank and Trust Company of Yankton. This was during a time when wallets carried more dust than dollars. In 1940 the name changed to First Dakota National Bank.

1983

Larry Ness

Larry Ness became President of First Dakota National Bank. At that time, First Dakota was a struggling bank with one location and an asset size of $42 million. In 1988, First Dakota merged with American State Bank in Yankton and grew to two Yankton locations and one in Vermillion.

1993

Dakota Mac

Dakota MAC was developed to provide long-term Ag real estate loans at competitive interest rates and terms. We knew then and still know now how difficult it is to operate in 3 and 5-year short-term notes.

2003

First Dakota & Sioux Falls

First Dakota enters into the largest city of South Dakota. With the addition of Sioux Falls Downtown and Sioux Falls Louise, First Dakota has 12 locations and over $500 million in assets.

2011

Named 2nd Largest Ag Bank

First Dakota was named the 2nd largest Ag Bank by American Banker Magazine. A proven fact that Agriculture has been in our blood since we first opened our doors in 1872.

2022

Our 150th Anniversary

Celebrating one and a half centuries as South Dakota's original bank. We owe it all to the communities we are a part of.

Anniversary Cookbook

Explore not-so-secret recipes that celebrate our South Dakota way of life. Have a recipe you want to share? Submit your delicious dish to be considered for our cookbook.

Learn More
Chamberlain bridge at sunset

Let's Pave the Future Together

We're proud of our past, but we've also got big plans in store for the future—and we hope you'll join us. Whatever your financial needs or dreams, First Dakota is ready to help.

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