GENERAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE BUSINESS

August 1, 1916 marked the first day of business for Farmers & Merchants Bank of Lodi. The Bank was incorporated under the laws of the State of California and was licensed by the California Department of Financial Institutions as a state-chartered bank. The Bank prospered and grew even through the Depression years. Farmers & Merchants' first venture out of Lodi occurred in response to the closure of the only bank serving the community of Galt, requiring area residents to drive miles away for the simplest banking transaction. To meet this need, the Galt office was opened in 1948. Shortly thereafter branches were...