American Heritage Bank is one of the oldest independently owned banks in the Tulsa area. Like many of the venerable institutions still operating today, our origins are linked to the rich Oklahoma history that began with the discovery of the world's largest oil field in nearby Glenpool.

The bank opened its doors in 1905 with capital of $25,000. Charles Whitaker was president and his board of directors was comprised largely of oilmen who were committed to the Sapulpa community, including F.B. Ufer, P.J. White and Harry F. Sinclair. This trio went on to form Sinclair Oil, one of the largest early day oil companies.

In 1939, Guy L. Berry Sr. led AHB as president during one of its greatest periods of growth. He was succeeded in 1957 by his son, Guy L. Berry Jr., who later served as Chairman of the Board until his death in 1980. A third generation, William L. Berry and Guy L. Berry, currently serve as Chairman and President, respectively.

In 1959, the bank was granted full trust powers, making it the only active Trust Company in Creek County. American Bancorporation, Inc., a bank holding company, was formed in 1969 to position the institution for phenomenal growth. The Mannford State Bank was purchased in 1983; Bank of Beggs in 1986; First National Bank of Sapulpa in 1987; the First Bank and Trust of Yale in 1989; Family Federal Savings & Loan of Sapulpa in 1990; Limestone National Bank of Sand Springs in 1993; Cleveland Superior Federal in 1998; and Cleveland's First National in 2002.

AHB also opened its Mission Street Branch in Sapulpa in 1985; the Kellyville Branch in 1986; and the Mounds Branch in 1991. In February of 1997, a new branch was built in Berryhill, and in 1999 the Sapulpa Wal-Mart Branch was opened. The holding company currently has operations in nine area communities and employs more than 200 people. Since, 1905, the keystone of our success has been the ongoing relationships with the communities it serves. The bank feels strongly about participating in local activities not only financially, but also with the time and talents of its employees, officers and directors.

American Heritage Bank's legacy of stability, professionalism, and high quality service is a testimony to its commitment to provide the financial resources its customers need in the future.

American Heritage Bank of Sapulpa, Oklahoma, was chartered June 15, 1905. In the beginning, the scent of petroleum was never far from the boardroom at AHB with oilmen playing a key role in its growth and management. In 1939, Guy L. Berry, Sr. became President. The bank continues to be owned and operated by the Berry family, William Lloyd Berry, Sr., C.E.O. and Guy L. Berry, III, President. AHB has been owned by the same family for over sixty years.

An article from the Sapulpa Daily Herald stated, "American Heritage has a long and distinguished history of serving banking needs of both industry and individuals. It was established during the economically volatile oil boom days when there was a bank on every corner, many of which collapsed as the boom subsided and an over-supply of cheap oil was followed by declining revenues. It endured times known for long unemployment lines, barren farms, business executives experiencing ruin, turmoil in Europe, and bank robbers being glamorized. And, because it did, today it is poised and prepared to face a future that promises a potential that is both challenging and prosperous."

In a letter to the community during our 90th Anniversary, "the bank has lived through five major military conflicts, two great depressions, and numerous ups and downs of the business cycle. Our roots go back to the days when most of our streets were dirt and clay. Now we are served by sixteen lanes of modern freeway. We have grown from an economy based on agriculture, oil, glass, aluminum, metal fabrication, pipe manufacturing, pottery, and many additional industries. As our community has grown, so has our bank. A single facility established in 1905, we are now operating in nine communities. We are proud to serve fourth and fifth generation customers. If I could think of one thing that has enabled us to weather all the changes over the years, it has been the policy of sticking with quality. We have quality people delivering quality products and services. We do not take this for granted, but recognize it as a challenge for our future prosperity."

Guy L. Berry, President of American Heritage Bank said, "Despite all the changes banks are undergoing, we at American Heritage Bank resolve to never forget the human touch, because banking will always be a people business. Through the years hard work and integrity have been the hallmark of Oklahomans and Sapulpans and these characteristics will remain the essential ingredients for success in the future. At American Heritage Bank we are committed to excellence in building our community and in providing the very best in banking service. This is our pledge for the next ninety years."

In keeping with the commitment of American Heritage Bank we will always deliver the finest in quality products and services, recent years have seen continuing innovative changes. In order to enable customers to access account balances any time night or day with just a phone call, a system called On-Call was introduced. To service the retirement and insurance needs of our customers, an investment center and insurance center was added. And most recently, Internet Banking became a reality at AHB. With AmericanNet, free Internet banking is available, allowing customers the comfort and convenience of banking at home.

Since its beginning in 1905, American Heritage Bank has experienced the inescapable waves of change. Rather than as an obstacle or inconvenience, however, we have consistently viewed change as an opportunity to creatively build on our history of stability and professionalism. While other changes are sure to come, one thing will always be the same…we recognize our success which is measured by the quality banking products and services we provide our customers that allow them to confront the evolving economic challenges each day brings.