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Our story

Five generations of family banking.

Chartered over a century ago in the small town of Dorset, Minnesota, Northwoods Bank has grown and prospered under the ownership and management of five generations of the Hewitt family.

Our history

An interesting century in the north woods

Northwoods Bank of Minnesota has an interesting history. Chartered over a century ago in Dorset, MN, the bank navigated the depths of the Depression, the expansion years of the 1980s and 1990s, a charter re-location and name change, and most recently the great recession.

Through it all, the bank has grown and prospered under five generations of the Hewitt family.

  1. 19

    1919 to 1929

    In the beginning.

  2. 30s

    1929 to 1939

    The Great Depression strikes.

  3. 40s

    1940 to 1980

    The Hewitts build strong ties to the bank.

  4. 80s

    1980 to 2000

    Growth and expansion, a name change, and charter re-location.

  5. Now

    2001 to present

    Serving the north woods today.

Our core values

The principles we do not negotiate

Our core values are the non-negotiable principles that define the way we do business. They are our guideposts and our conscience.

Integrity

We demonstrate honesty and integrity in all our dealings with fellow employees, customers, and business partners.

Customer Focus

We treat all people fairly and with respect. We strive to understand what our customers need and exceed their expectations.

Community Commitment

We care deeply about the communities we serve, dedicating our time and resources to enhance the quality of life around us.

Innovative

We contribute to the success of our customers with innovative products and services, streamlined processes, and educated employees.

Accountability

We encourage growth and leadership, and empower our employees to make wise and prudent decisions.

Family Values

As a family-owned bank, we uphold the strong values passed down through the generations, and prepare the bank for the next.

Our mission

Guided by our family values, we strive to:

  • Build strong, personal relationships with customers to help them fulfill their dreams and goals.
  • Create an atmosphere of warmth and service excellence with our dedicated employees.
  • Be innovative in developing new products and delivery methods.
  • Make a lasting difference in the communities we serve.

Our vision

We are here to make a difference.

As a family-owned community bank, our efforts will always reflect our character and values. We will work tirelessly to be the financial resource for our customers, building lasting relationships and treating everyone with respect and fairness.

Become part of the story

Open an account today, or come say hello at a branch. We would love to meet you.