Hometown Banking with Your Neighbors and Friends.
Founded on September 7, 1920, Farmers & Merchants State Bank has been serving the community of Scotland, South Dakota, for over a century. Established by a group of local visionaries—Philip Engel, Alex Brown, C.D. Donley, Guy R. Brown, Joseph Stevenson, and H.N. Hess—the bank has remained a mainstay of our community ever since.
Operating from the same location at 550 Main Street, our historic building was originally constructed in 1919. The building underwent major renovations in 1972 with additional updates in 1991. These renovations ensure that we continue to meet the needs of our customers in a modern setting while preserving our bank's rich legacy.
In 1938, George D. Behl and his wife, Meredith Behl, joined the board of directors. That same year, George was appointed president of the bank, encouraged by Erling Haugo, the Superintendent of Banks. George served as president until his passing in 1969.
The Behl family's dedication to the bank continued with Darwin "Bud" Behl, who returned from military service to join the bank in 1941. Bud devoted 70 years of service to the bank, until his passing in 2015. His wife, Marilyn Behl, joined the bank in 1945, where she played a pivotal role in operations and public relations until 2012.
In 1977, Dick D. Behl, son of Darwin and Marilyn Behl, joined the bank and became president in 1982. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding the bank through changing times.
In 2009, Michael D. Behl, son of Dick and Margaret Behl, joined the bank and currently serves in compliance and information technology. He continues to honor his family's legacy of service to the community and commitment to excellence.
Today, Farmers & Merchants State Bank remains a proud, independent community bank with ten dedicated staff members and six board members. Our Board of Directors includes: Chairman Dick D. Behl, Margaret Behl, Nancy Auch, Donna Bush, Melvin Kepplinger, and Michael D. Behl.
As Scotland, South Dakota's independent community bank for more than 100 years, we take pride in our rich history and unwavering commitment to serving our neighbors with the highest level of personal service and financial integrity.