In the aftermath of the Great War and the devastating fire of 1916 that left Paris, Texas, in disarray, a group of community leaders banded together to devise a plan for the city’s recovery. In 1922, they founded the Paris Savings and Loan Association—now First Federal Community Bank—with a mission to promote home ownership and saving for future needs, as well as a philosophy of service to the community rather than personal profit. The bank’s mutual-governance charter ensured that profits from the bank were reinvested in the community’s growth and development, as well as serving the customers.
Over the past century, the company has grown from a savings and loan association to a full-service bank, adapting to changing times and meeting the personal and business banking needs of its customers in both deposit and loan services.
In honor of First Federal Community Bank’s 100-year anniversary, a historical marker was proposed in 2021 and brought to fruition in 2023. On October 3, notable community members, including former and current bank board members and presidents, gathered at 630 Clarksville St. in Paris for the historical marker’s dedication. Its unveiling was overseen by Richard M. Amis, former president and current chairman of the bank, who expressed his pride in serving his hometown bank for nearly five decades.
Lisa Bassano Archer, chair of the Lamar County Historical Commission, honored her ancestors’ legacy at the ceremony. She shared cherished memories of her grandfather and father, who made significant contributions to the region’s history.
Established in 1922, First Federal Community Bank operates Texas branches in Paris, Clarksville and Mount Pleasant.
Pictured at top: unidentified, Lisa Bassano Archer, presenter and chair of the Lamar County Historical Commission; Susie Harper; Marvin Gorley, marker chair; Pat Bassano, former senior vice president and current board member of First Federal Community Bank; Brad Meyers, president and CEO of First Federal Community Bank; and Richard M. Amis, chair and former president and CEO of First Federal Community Bank. Attendees not pictured: Patsy Davis, Barbara Wilson and Skipper Steeley.
Brad Meyers and Richard M. Amis unveiling the historical marker
