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The Colorado Bank & Trust: A Legacy of Community Banking

Founded on June 24, 1907, The Colorado Bank & Trust began as a small, community-oriented financial institution in La Junta, Colorado. Originally established as the Southern Colorado Trust Company, it was the vision of a group of local businessmen who sought to create a bank that could serve the financial needs of their growing community. The bank’s foundation was solidified under the leadership of its first president, Fred A. Sabin, and a dedicated team of officers and directors. Their focus was on integrity and local service, values that would remain at the core of the bank for over a century.

In its early days, the institution faced challenges, culminating in a shift that marked the beginning of a new chapter as the bank continued to evolve, eventually becoming The Colorado Bank and Trust Company of La Junta on February 17, 1961.

From the very beginning, the bank’s operations were centered around providing personalized service to La Junta and the surrounding communities. Initially, the bank operated out of a small office located at 202 Santa Fe Avenue in La Junta. However, by October 1908, only a year after opening, the institution had grown enough to justify the construction of a two-story building. This early investment in infrastructure set the tone for the bank’s ongoing commitment to the community’s financial stability and growth for over one hundred years.

Throughout its long history, the Colorado Bank & Trust has been led by a series of visionary presidents who navigated through periods of economic challenges and prosperity, each of whom contributed to the bank’s continued success. The support of a loyal customer base and community has greatly contributed to this success. In 2023, CB&T was purchased by a 4^th generation banking family from Iowa who had set down roots in Colorado in early 2001. The Bank was purchased with the intent of continuing its legacy of hometown banking, with a focus on helping its local ranchers, farmers and family-owned small businesses prosper in the markets they serve.

The Colorado Bank & Trust’s commitment to local banking has always been evident in its expansion of services and locations. Over the years, the bank has grown beyond La Junta, opening a branch in Pueblo that would provide convenient access to customers along the Arkansas Valley. As part of its continued expansion and investment in Colorado, The Colorado Bank & Trust proudly announces the opening of a new location in the ever-growing mountain town of Buena Vista, Colorado, further strengthening its presence in the state. Tony Jones, President and CEO, expressed excitement about the new branch, saying, “We are thrilled to be adding this new location as we continue to expand our footprint in Colorado. We look forward to getting to know our customers in this new market to see how we can best support this incredible community.  We are also excited about the opportunity to collaborate with the talented team in Buena Vista and to continue building on the great work that has already been done here.” He added that the leadership teams of both institutions would work closely together to ensure a seamless transition for all involved.

As the bank moves forward into its next century, it remains dedicated to providing a quality customer experience rooted in community values. With continued leadership from the Jones family and a focus on strategic growth, The Colorado Bank & Trust stands poised for a bright future as a trusted institution that serves both local customers and the broader Colorado community.