Country Bank Wins Silver Telly Award for 175th Anniversary Documentary
The award-winning short film commemorates Country Bank's 175-year legacy, celebrating its enduring commitment to customers, communities, and team members. From its founding as Ware Savings Bank in 1850 to its evolution into a modern community bank, the spot reflects the Bank's mission of, "Made to Make a Difference."
The documentary chronicles several key milestones, including a $70,000 railroad loan in 1869 (equivalent to $2.8 million today), the introduction of school savings accounts in 1920, the first home loan in 1945 to a WWII Veteran, the launch of its first ATM in 1982, and the arrival of online and mobile banking in the 90s. It also details the pivotal 1981 merger of Palmer Savings Bank and Ware Savings Bank that led to the formation of today's Country Bank.
The film showcases President and CEO Mary McGovern as she reflects on memorabilia that highlights significant milestones in the Bank's 175-year history. Board Chairman James Phaneuf takes a trip back in time to the Thompson Savings Bank in Old Sturbridge Village, where he portrays an 1850s banker who "signs" the original incorporation documents that the Bank discovered during its research.
"We are incredibly proud to receive this Silver Telly Award, an exciting first for Country Bank," said Shelley Regin, Chief Marketing and Community Relations Officer. "This documentary was created to honor the people and the purpose behind our 175-year legacy. It's a tribute to our customers, our team members, and our community partners who continue to shape our story every day. We're especially grateful to Ed Brown of New York Sound and Motion for his creative partnership in bringing this story to life."
Country Bank extends its appreciation to all who have been a part of its remarkable journey. This recognition reinforces the Bank's ongoing commitment to excellence in community banking for generations to come.
View the video https://youtu.be/CGJUbe5N64I
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About Country Bank: Established in 1850, Country Bank has a rich history of supporting personal and business banking customers through financial solutions with FDIC and DIF insurance for added security. Country Bank is a full-service $2B mutual community bank serving Central and Western Massachusetts with 15 banking centers and 2 business offices in Ware, Palmer, West Brookfield, Brimfield, Belchertown, Wilbraham, Longmeadow, Ludlow, Leicester, Paxton, Charlton, Springfield, Uxbridge, and Worcester. With a commitment to personalized service and community involvement, Country Bank offers individuals, businesses, and municipalities a comprehensive range of banking products and services. Country Bank is a member of FDIC, DIF, and the SUM network. Country Bank can be reached at 800-322-8233 or online at countrybank.com
Jodie Gerulaitis FVP Community Relations
August 1, 2025 — Country Bank, in partnership with New York Sound and Motion, is proud to announce that it has been awarded a People's Silver Telly Award for its 175th Anniversary documentary. This recognition honors excellence in video and television across all screens.