Business Spotlight: From ranching roots to modern banking — GB&T’s century in Gunnison

Gunnison Bank & Trust has served the Gunnison Valley for more than a century, evolving alongside the community it was founded to support.

The bank was certified by the Colorado State Bank Commissioner on Dec. 23, 1910, and opened two days later at 101 North Main Street.

Founder Charles W. Winslow, who moved to Gunnison in 1910 after starting in business in Pitkin, established the bank with $30,000 in capital. Winslow, who died in 1933, was succeeded by his son, A.E. Winslow, as bank president.

The original interior featured mahogany furnishings, green-tinted walls and Gunnison marble wainscoting, reflecting the bank’s early role as a financial pillar for the valley’s ranching community. Early advertisements highlighted agricultural lending, support for cattle and hay operations and college student accounts for Western students.

Throughout its history, Gunnison Bank & Trust has participated in national and local efforts during times of crisis. It joined Liberty Loan campaigns during World War I and supported those who became blind before the United States entered the war in 1916.

The bank also maintained stability through the Great Depression and provided significant economic relief during the COVID-19 pandemic, facilitating numerous Paycheck Protection Program loans.

The bank relocated in the 1930s to 200 West Tomichi Avenue and opened its current location in October 1982. Its Crested Butte branch opened in 2000, and a new branch is under construction in CB South.

Today, Gunnison Bank & Trust remains Gunnison’s oldest state-chartered bank, maintaining strong ties to the community’s economic and civic life while offering modern banking services.

“Gunnison Bank & Trust has grown with the valley while staying true to its hometown roots,” said Chad Zummach, executive vice president.

Gunnison Bank & Trust is part of the Gunnison Country Times sponsored content program called Spotlight.