Our History

A Legacy Rooted in Community

Located in the heart of the Village of Cattaraugus, the Bank of Cattaraugus proudly stands as one of the oldest independent banks in the state and the country.

Founded in 1882, the Bank of Cattaraugus was established by twenty visionary local citizens who saw the need for a reliable financial institution.

These founders, representing a diverse range of professions—lumbermen, hide tanners, cheese makers, senators, blacksmiths, knife makers, judges, sawmill operators, an ax factory owner, and even a Civil War surgeon—each invested in creating a bank for their community. They elected the first officers and opened the bank on Main Street.

In 1913, the bank moved across the street to its current home at the corner of Main and Washington. This building at 24 Main Street, Cattaraugus, NY, has been carefully preserved and renovated.

Today, it offers a welcoming environment that blends historic charm with modern business features to meet the financial needs of its customers.

A Family Tradition of Leadership

L. Edgar Cullen

In 1940, L. Edgar Cullen joined the Bank of Cattaraugus, marking the beginning of the Cullen family’s enduring legacy of leadership. Elected the 6th President in 1957, L. Edgar Cullen held the position for 25 years, profoundly impacting the bank’s growth and success.

Patrick J. Cullen

In 1982, Patrick J. Cullen succeeded his father as the 7th President. Patrick began working at the bank in 1967 and joined full-time in 1971. He led the bank with vision and dedication for 37 years. His leadership spanned over five decades, ensuring the bank’s prosperity and strong ties to the community. Patrick sadly passed in 2023, but his legacy continues to inspire the bank’s mission.

Joan A. Cullen

In 1990, Joan A. Cullen, wife of Patrick J Cullen, joined the Bank of Cattaraugus, contributing her expertise as Corporate Secretary, Executive Officer, and Director. She remains a vital part of the bank’s operations today.

Colleen Cullen Young

In 1998, Colleen Cullen Young joined the bank and was elected the 8th President in 2019. As a third-generation banker, Colleen continues the family’s legacy of local leadership. Under her guidance, the bank remains strong, independent, and dedicated to serving the community.

Colleen summarizes the bank’s vision as follows: “We believe that by keeping ownership and management decisions local, we can better serve our community’s financial needs. Preserving the past while preparing for the future is at the heart of everything we do.”

For over 85 years, a member of the Cullen family has held an executive position at Bank of Cattaraugus, ensuring continuity, commitment, and care for the community.

Leadership Through the Years

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Investing Locally for Generations

Since its inception, the Bank of Cattaraugus has supported its community. By focusing its investments locally, the bank has helped finance thousands of homes and businesses, fueling the area’s growth and prosperity. Local ownership and management have ensured that deposits are reinvested into the community, sustaining a vibrant local economy.

Bank of Cattaraugus offers the same range of financial services as larger institutions but with a personal touch that sets it apart.

“Excellent Customer Service” is the bank’s trademark—an enduring value that has stood the test of time and remains central to its mission today.