News

December 5, 2023

1st National Bank of Scotia Ribbon Cutting

When John Henry Buhrmaster and his family opened the Glenville Bank in November 1923, the Roaring 20s were in their early stages, but international players were already starting to lay the groundwork for the tumultuous decades that lay ahead.   During the Great Depression, Mr. Buhrmaster would visit with area businesses, and if cash was needed it was theirs.   Paperwork was something to be filled out later, and no one ever defaulted in those days when a person’s handshake was as good as a 25-page signed contract.  A century later, November 19, 2023 was designated “1st National Bank of Scotia Day” (the Bank’s current name) in the Town of Glenville and Village of Scotia in honor of their 100th anniversary.  John Henry’s grandson Louis and great-grandson John (the current Bank president), Laura (Buhrmaster) Dieterich (Sr. VP and Corporate Secretary), and members of their family celebrated by cutting the Capital Region Chamber’s ribbon alongside so many well-wishers, current and former employees, and customers past and present.  1st National Bank of Scotia remains a family-owned, community-minded bank which is so rare in today’s age of mergers and conglomerates, yet they provide all the resources once could expect in today’s financial world including branches throughout the area.  Theirs is truly a story of triumph for family, community, and tenacity, and a legacy to the Capital Region that we can all be proud of.

Laura Dieterich holds the scissors as father Louis Buhrmaster, brother John Buhrmaster, Senator Jim Tedisco, Capital Region Chamber President & CEO Mark Eagan (far right), Village of Scotia Mayor David Bucciferro (far left), and Glenville Town Supervisor Chris Koetzle look on.

All 2023 ribbon cuttings of the Capital Region Chamber and it’s affiliates are sponsored by the Saratoga National Bank & Trust Company.