Our Story
For more than a century, First State Bank Nebraska has been built on relationships, trust, and a deep commitment to the communities we call home. What began as a small-town Nebraska bank in 1912 has grown into a network of community-focused branches serving customers across the state, while staying true to the belief that banking should always feel personal.
1912
First State Bank began serving Nebraska communities in 1912, opening its first location in Hickman as a state-chartered bank. From the very beginning, our focus has been simple: helping local families, farms, and businesses thrive.
2001
A new chapter began when Tom Damkroger and a group of local investors purchased Wilber Co., now known as First State Holding Co., from the Bergmeyer family, bringing locations in Wilber, Dorchester and Hallam, and LPOs in Lincoln and Cortland.
2004
First State Bank, with locations in Hickman and Lincoln, and the Bank of Yutan joined Saline State Bank as part of the growing First State Holding Co. family. The trusted First State Bank name was proudly retained, reflecting a shared commitment to local relationships and community service.
This year also welcomed two key leaders to the organization: Tom Oerter and Jerry Lentfer.
2009
Filley Bank joined the First State family, allowing us to build even stronger relationships with customers and communities across southeast Nebraska.
Keith Jantzen joined the First State team.
2010
First State Holding Co. continued to grow welcoming Farmers Bank of Lincoln and DeWitt State Bank, adding branches in Waverly, Lincoln, DeWitt, Pickrell, and Western.
Jeff Kanger joined the organization.
2012
To better reflect our commitment to communities across the state, First State Bank officially became First State Bank Nebraska.
2013
We entered the Beatrice market by opening a Loan Production Office.
2014
Jon Damkroger joined First State, continuing the next generation of leadership focused on strong relationships and community investment.
2016
First State Bank Nebraska opened its new headquarters at 2701 Grainger Parkway in Lincoln, creating a central home for continued growth and collaboration.
We also closed our Loan Production Office in Beatrice to open a full-service branch in a new location.
Tanner Smith joined the First State team this year as well.
2017
Jerry Lentfer was promoted to CEO of First State Bank Nebraska, continuing a leadership approach centered on people, relationships, and local decision-making.
2018
The Nehawka Bank joined the First State family, adding to our growing network of Nebraska communities served.
This year also marked Tom Damkroger’s appointment to Chairman of the Board and Brenda Watson’s promotion to Chief Customer Officer.
2020
Plattsmouth State Bank became part of First State Holding Co., continuing our mission bringing community-focused banking to more Nebraska communities.
During the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, First State proudly processed and funded more than 600 PPP loans for businesses across 20 states, helping local businesses keep their doors open and employees working.
Keith Jantzen was promoted to Chief Lending Officer.
2021
Jeff Kanger was promoted to President, recognizing his commitment to community banking, and dedication to building relationships across the communities we serve.
2025
Community State Bank in Colon and Cedar Bluffs joined First State Holding Co., further expanding our commitment to serving Nebraska communities with local banking and personal service.
2026
Tanner Smith was promoted to Executive Vice President, Lending Strategy Officer, reflecting First State’s continued investment in strong leadership.
Eric Koenig joined First State as Chief Operations Officer.
First State Today
More than 100 years later, First State Bank Nebraska continues to grow with the same community-first mindset we started with in 1912. We’re proud to show up for Nebraska families, farmers, businesses, and communities with local decision-making, personal relationships, and a team that truly cares.
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