First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) was founded in 1857 by Augustus and Herman Kountze, pioneers who established a deposit bank in Nebraska Territory despite frontier hardships and legal restrictions. Through innovation and sound management, their institution became one of the first nationally chartered banks in 1863, financing the Union Pacific Railroad and aiding Omaha’s growth as a commercial center. Over generations, FNBO has stayed under private family ownership—passing through the Kountze, Creighton, Davis, and Lauritzen families—and has weathered financial panics, the Great Depression, postwar expansion, deregulation, and technological change. Its resilience derives from a focus on customer relationships, adaptability (adopting consumer lending, credit cards, and digital banking early), and a commitment to community prosperity.
FNBO’s legacy includes strategic acquisitions, technological investment, and civic engagement—supporting local businesses, revitalizing downtown Omaha, and pioneering affordable housing. The bank’s leaders, especially the Lauritzen family, have balanced growth with prudent risk management, avoiding excessive leverage and remaining privately held. Today, with over $34 billion in assets, FNBO ranks among the largest privately held U.S. banks, guided by integrity, respect, and passion. It continues to pursue innovation and community impact, aiming to be a “great big, small bank” defined by enduring customer trust.
This enhanced eBook features pop-up images, videos, and embedded audio quotes from executives, retirees, and key stakeholders who were interviewed during the research for this book.
