First Option Bank, formerly known as First National Bank, was chartered as a federal bank and opened for business in 1923. Capital stock of $50,000 was divided into 500 shares to start the bank whose first home was in a building owned by S.S. Whiteford on Main Street in Osawatomie.

In 1925, a new tract of land was purchased in Osawatomie and a two-story building was built on the southwest corner of Sixth and Main Street to house the bank building.

Ted E. Lewis purchased the bank in 1970 and the bank still operates under the ownership of the Lewis family today. A new facility was erected and opened for business at 601 Main in Osawatomie in 1975. The bank continues to operate at that location today after periodic remodeling to better accommodate the needs of the customers, allowing staff to better serve them.

An additional location was opened in Paola in December 1993. This expansion allowed the bank to better satisfy the needs of the Paola community.

The bank changed its name to First Option Bank in January 1999. The change was initiated by the fact there were some 56 First National Banks in Kansas and our desire to create our own image and identity. The bank also converted from a National to a State charter.

Two additional branches were added in 2000. LaCygne boasted its first drive-up ATM when First Option opened in May 2000. Louisburg’s opening followed soon after in August 2000 in the downtown area on Broadway. Our newest facility opened in Spring Hill in September 2007. Each location is unique and allows us to better accommodate the communities we serve.

There have been many changes in the banking industry during the decades of our existence. But even with all the changes, First Option has survived and grown with the dedication of the owners and staff, along with the support of our customers.

Community involvement, superior customer service, honesty and integrity are long-standing traditions of First Option Bank. Those traditions will continue as we look forward to serving our communities even better in the future.