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posted on Monday, August 21, 2023

Cresco location is refreshed to celebrate 135 years in business

scott and artwork

J. Scott Thomson, CEO, shows a few of his favorite photos of the 70+ historical photos that are beautifying the walls of our Cresco location. The photo on the right is of the Cresco Theatre being constructed. The photo on the left is when the theatre was completed. To see the rest of the photos, be sure to take a tour during the bank’s celebration Aug. 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Since 1888, our Cresco location has undergone six major renovation projects, with our most recent being completed this month. A major addition/remodel was completed in 2000, and this refresh was not nearly as invasive, with the most dramatic changes happening on the main floor of the Cresco location.

J. Scott Thomson, CEO of CUSB Bank said, “Our family wanted to update the Cresco location to ensure a more efficient use of space for our customers and employees, and we also wanted to ensure a desirable place for employees to work. We are very thankful to our bank patrons, staff, and Board of Directors for helping us grow over the years.”

Thomson, with the help of his wife, Stephanie, Board Member Ronda Hughes, President Michael Drees, and SVP and HR Director Lori Bronner, worked together to plan the renovation of the deadline of our 135th Anniversary celebration.

Bronner said, “Our goal was to modernize our location and provide more privacy for customers while keeping the traditional look and Thomson family style of the building. We also focused on ergonomically correct spaces for our employees.”

New cubicles were installed on the main floor along with a new teller line, construction of two new offices, seating area, and safe deposit viewing room. Wall coverings in neutral tones, dark cherry wood work, and white woodwork (original to the building) have updated the space from its former yellow/floral motif.

The star of the remodel are the old photographs of Cresco that adorn our walls. Scott worked with the Howard County Historical Society, the bank’s time capsule, and with Cresco native Tyler Ferrie on the photography project. Over 70 photos with dates of the 1870s to the 1960s are on display throughout the bank. The black and white photos feature many different Cresco landmarks and they help to tell Cresco and CUSB Bank’s story.

Thomson said, “We wanted to remain faithful to the architecture of our building and felt that these historical photos were a perfect fit, paying homage to Cresco’s downtown, and celebrating the bank’s rich history over the past 135 years.”

Several local contractors have helped with the renovation project and the bank is very thankful of their craftsmanship and professionalism.

Thomson said, “It was important for us to use local contractors we trust and they have done an amazing job.”

The Cresco location will be open for tours during the 135th Anniversary celebration from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.