Established on December 10, 1915, as the Twin Falls Building and Loan Association, First Federal Bank originated from a meeting of fifteen individuals exploring the feasibility of organizing a Building and Loan Company in Twin Falls County. The bank was swiftly chartered, and stock sales commenced, leading to its inception. The initial stockholders’ meeting on January 7, 1916, incorporated the company with E.J. Finch elected as president.
Starting in the Perrine Hotel building on 118 Shoshone Street West, the Association issued its first loan of $700 on June 16, 1916, culminating the first year with total assets of $3,376.99. Over the years, it transformed into The Mutual Building and Loan Association in 1919 and later moved to 303 Shoshone Street.
In 1934, seeking stability and community focus, the Association converted to the federal mutual savings and loan association, becoming the First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Twin Falls on January 28, 1935. Stuart H. Taylor assumed the presidency, steering the institution towards community-centric goals.
Under James Sinclair and James W. Dodds’ leadership, a branch office was established in 1977, marking a period of unprecedented growth. Richard L. Allen continued the legacy until his passing in 1998, succeeded by C. Alan Horner until his retirement in 2017. Jason A. Meyerhoeffer, the current President and CEO, took the reins, maintaining the bank’s commitment to community service through the First Federal Foundation.
Today, First Federal Bank stands as Idaho’s community bank of choice, with over 250 employees, thirteen branches, and assets exceeding $1.3 billion. The First Federal Foundation has awarded over $1.3 million in grants to support local causes and initiatives, emphasizing the bank’s commitment to community improvement.
