VIII. e Drive-Up Window: A New Concept in Banking

e Drive-Up Window

A New Concept in Banking

In 1945, a new entrance was added to the Capitol eater. e renovations moved the Bank’s front doors, and as a result, the Bank changed its address to 288 Water Street.

e Bank operated with a sta of three until 1954 when Cecile Bou ard was hired. Ms. Bou ard would go on to become one of the Bank’s longest-serving employees, working in a number of di erent capacities before her retirement in 1998. A fth employee was brought on in 1958.

In 1955, the Maine Turnpike was extended to Augusta, and an o -ramp was built on Western Avenue. During this time period, business growth was exploding in all directions from Water Street. In 1958, the Bank purchased property at 150 State Street, the site of the former residence of George W. Macomber. Macomber served as mayor of Augusta from 1886 to 1888. He was also a banker and insurance agent.

Top: The Bank purchased property at 150 State Street to build a new banking facility. The property was once the residence of former Augusta Mayor George W. Macomber.

Left: Kennebec Savings Bank demolished the former Macomber residence to build a then-modern banking facility.

Opposite: Kennebec Savings Bank’s new “modern” banking facility at 150 State Street, Augusta, in 1959. Bank employee Cecile Bouffard is pictured here at the drive-up window.

Kennebec Savings Bank turned the site into a then-modern banking facility that included a relatively new phenomenon—a drive-up window where customers could do their banking from their car. It is believed that Kennebec Savings Bank was the rst in the area to add this modern convenience.

Bank assets at the end of 1959 were more than $6.5 million. e only type of deposit accounts being o ered remained savings accounts until certi cates of deposit (CDs) were introduced in 1969. e Bank began o ering checking accounts in 1975.

Opposite, above and left: The new location at 150 State Street offered a convenient drive-up window and plenty of parking. Inside, the building was outfitted with thenmodern furniture and decor.

Right: Kennebec Savings Bank is believed to be the first in the area to offer its customers the convenience of a drive-up window.