Our History

Our Company

A Brief History of Old National

Technology has made banking easier, faster and more convenient. But there remains value in personal relationships, individualized service and a long-standing history of serving families and business since 1834. At Old National, clients feel a sense of community that sets the foundation for trust and, ultimately, better working relationships.

Old National: Nurturing growth since 1834

It started on the shore of the Ohio River in 1834, in one small room at the heart of what would eventually become Evansville, Indiana. That first Old National Bank (as it would later be known) provided financial solutions for community residents, local merchants and those passing through. New loans allowed families to realize their dreams and businesses to grow.

Old National grew, too, and soon would successfully navigate the difficult periods that forced many other banks to close, including the Panic of 1837 and the 1929 Wall Street crash that ushered in the Great Depression. Through it all, Old National remained strong.

By the end of World War II, the bank’s growth meant it also could expand geographically—a trend that would continue over the years.

A midsize bank with community bank DNA

In June 2021, Old National announced a merger of equals with First Midwest Bank, a Chicago-based financial institution. This merger was officially completed in February 2022, making First Midwest a division of Old National until offices and computer systems can be fully integrated in July 2022. This powerful combination, with $46 billion in total assets and dual headquarters in Evansville and Chicago, provides even greater convenience for clients with expanded access to more than 250 banking centers across the Midwest.

Despite significant growth over the past decade, Old National has maintained our dedication to being a true community bank with team members who are active members of the cities and towns they call home. In 2021 alone, our team members donated more than 40,000 volunteer hours to 1,500+ organizations. Additionally, our focus on ethical banking, financial education, leadership and inclusion (which has led to multiple awards) is emblematic of our commitment to exceeding client expectations.

Today, the Old National story is reflected in the stories of our clients and the communities we support. Hopeful entrepreneurs. First-time homebuyers. Nonprofit groups. Students. Parents and families. Business owners. Retirees.

And now, as a top 35 U.S. bank, Old National is every bit as committed as we were nearly 190 years ago to exceeding client expectations and strengthening and supporting the communities we call home.