Our Journey

Founded in 1908 in Mendenhall, Mississippi, Peoples Bank was born from a vision to serve the underserved. Pioneering business leaders Col. Sidney McLaurin and Dewitt Enochs opened our doors to provide much-needed financial services to a community largely overlooked by banks based in Jackson. Their commitment to local service was further solidified with the appointment of A.S. Davis as Cashier, initiating a long-lasting legacy of dedication and personal care.

Sidney Davis, son of A.S. Davis, joined the bank in 1932 and became a local legend for his unwavering commitment during the Great Depression. Faced with nationwide bank closures, Davis famously ensured that Peoples Bank remained open, earning comparisons to George Bailey from It’s A Wonderful Life in the Los Angeles Times. Over the decades, Dennis Ammann, the great-grandson of A.S. Davis, has continued this legacy of service as the 4th generation CEO.

Our values, rooted in personal service and community commitment, have guided us through over a century of growth. From our small beginnings in Mendenhall, we have expanded our reach while staying true to the principles established by our founders.

Local Community

At Peoples Bank, we take pride in our deep-rooted connection to the communities we serve. Our mission is not just about banking; it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and businesses. Whether it’s providing loans to local entrepreneurs or supporting community involvement, our focus remains on enhancing the economic vitality and overall quality of life for our neighborhoods.

SBA Loans

For over 30 years, we have been dedicated to helping small businesses thrive through our SBA loan programs. Our commitment to supporting small businesses has earned us numerous accolades, including the National SBA Small Lender of the Year award in 2011. We have consistently been a top national award winner each year. As a Preferred SBA Lender, we streamline the approval process for loans under $350,000, providing timely support to help businesses grow and succeed.  Our expertise brings creative funding options that other banks do not typically offer.

Community Involvement Through CDFI and New Markets Tax Credits

In 2014, we became a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). This certification reflects our commitment to providing affordable capital to economically distressed areas. Through our Community Impact Fund (PBCIF), established in 2020, we leverage New Markets Tax Credits to attract private investment into underserved communities across Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, and Arkansas. This initiative is part of our broader strategy to stimulate economic growth and job creation in these regions.

Credit Up

Our innovative Credit Up program is designed to enhance financial literacy and creditworthiness among individuals and businesses. By offering resources, education, and support to improve credit profiles, we empower our customers to achieve their financial goals and contribute to their community’s economic development.

Impact

The impact of our efforts is visible in the thriving businesses and revitalized communities we serve. From small businesses that have expanded and created jobs to communities that have seen increased economic activity, our commitment to making a difference is reflected in the success stories of our clients and the regions we support.

A Bank That Helps YOU and Cares About YOU

At Peoples Bank, our commitment is to be a bank that genuinely cares about you. Whether you are right next door or five states over, we are dedicated to providing exceptional service and personalized support. Our mission is to be a partner in your success, offering creative solutions and active engagement to help you achieve your financial goals.

Unparalleled Service and Competency

Regardless of where you are, our goal is consistent: to deliver unparalleled service and competence. Our long-standing traditions of personal service and community involvement continue to guide our actions as we strive to exceed your expectations and support your journey to success.

Welcome to Peoples Bank, where our history of service, experience, and commitment drives us to help you thrive in today’s world.