The idea to form a bank in Wynne came about in 1891.  A group of the area's most influential men, gathered daily at the old Commercial Hotel to discuss the day's events...partly social, partly business.

Now let's step back in time for a moment and try to imagine what it must have been like in that small hotel lobby, with these men sitting around a few tables anxiously waiting to hear each others tales of the day.  It's probably safe to assume the air was filled with cigar and cigarette smoke, while the occasional sound of a train whistle pierced the outside air, since the hotel was located right across the street from the train depot.  You get the picture.  It was in this atmosphere that the group of businessmen discussed the need for a bank in their young town...only incorporated for three years, with a population of 1000.

It was Isaac Block, a planter who owned a large amount of valuable land just outside Wynne, who provided the leadership to change discussion into action  In late May of 1891, he persuaded 31 people to commit to $30,000, and an application was made to the State to charter Cross County Bank.  The application was promptly approved and the charter (#25) was granted on June, 5, 1891.  It was the second bank established in all of Eastern Arkansas. 

With chartering  accomplished, these men set
about  purchasing land and constructing the 
building to house the bank. The original bank building, located at the corner of  Front and Union, was expensive. Purchase price was $700. That  was almost a third of the total construction cost. The  building was $2,275 and when fittings and
furnishings were added  in, the men  had spent
a total of $5,042.63

With construction completed it was time to do business. The first financial report  figures are almost amusing. The gross income was $280.37 and expenses were $123.80, producing a  clear  profit of $156.57. The area's need for a bank proved itself very quickly though. From the beginning with $30,000 in total  resources, Cross County Bank grew to $52,666 two years later. And the rest, as they say, is history!

Today we carry forth the dreams of our founders and we're proud to say we are a part of a vision that has lasted for 120 years!  We believe that Cross County Bank's strength and stability are due to a commitment made by a group of determined men long ago to meet the financial needs of their community.  As 2011 marches on, we are determined to give our customers the best service possible and to carry on the tradition of strength and stability that began way back in 1891.