Regions Bank staff members cheerfully greeting customers and visitors for the bank's open house Friday, April 18, include, from left, Rebecca Shaw, Barbara Jones, Donna Cole and Linda Robinson. (Democrat photo/Nancy Kemp) [Click to enlarge]

The Rector branch of Regions Bank recently underwent a major renovation on its building at 400 Main Street. The company and its employees have a rich history in the location.

Construction on the building which houses Regions began in 1924 and was finished the following year. Upon completion, the site became the home of The Bank of Rector. Throughout the passage of time and the changes to Union Planters and Regions, the building at 400 Main has been a second home to not only the employees who worked there, but also a number of customers.

History is important to the bank and its employees. The exterior of the building remains close to its original design. The attention to its past led the bank to donate many of its original furnishings to the city of Rector.

"We gave portions of the interior to the city," said Linda Robinson, branch manager and vice-president of the Rector bank. "(Community development director) Cyndi Corkran was interested in keeping some of the older portions of the office which were removed. They wanted a piece of the bank's history, and we were happy to be able to help them."

Portions of the bank which were given to the city include the old teller line, railing from the former balcony and all of the former doors.

The entire bottom floor of the bank was remodeled, enabling Regions to part ways with the aforementioned portions. While not only updating the appearance, the changes also provide additional customer care. For instance, now the bank has readily available restrooms for use by its customers. Prior to the construction, there were no downstairs facilities, offering a hassle not only for employees, but customers, as well. The new restrooms also are in full compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, ensuring better access for all.

Other improvements include new flooring and plumbing, electrical and heating and air systems.

"We're very pleased with it," Robinson said. "It's like having a brand new building without having to move."

Construction at the site first began during the first part of February. Though the tile in the front lobby still has to be sealed, the remainder of the work was completed at the first of April.

To celebrate, Regions held an open house Friday, April 18. Robinson was pleased with the attendance for the event.

"We had a good turnout. There were probably 150 to 200 people here. It was just fantastic. We appreciate all the people who came out and joined us."

In fact, it went so well Robinson is considering holding another open house for the Christmas holiday.

The bank has four full-time employees. Robinson has been with the company for 32 years. Regional operations manager Brooke Daniels has been with the company for 12 years. Her home office is in Rector, but her duties also take her to other branches as needed. Head teller Barbara Jones has been with the company for 26 years. Donna Cole, the drive-up teller, has been with the bank five years. Financial services representative Rebecca Shaw has been with the company two years.