The History of RMCU

Rocky Mountain Credit Union, formerly State Capitol Employees Credit Union, has experienced a history of terrific growth and change since its inception, while always focusing on providing exemplary service to its members/owners. The credit union was chartered on December 17, 1940, by then Montana Secretary of State Sam W. Mitchell with a total of 47 charter members. The original bylaws limited the membership and sphere of operations to those employed by the State of Montana and living in Lewis and Clark County. Members who left this specific sphere of membership could retain all of the credit union’s member privileges except he or she could only borrow up to the extent of their shareholdings.

Financial services available through the credit union were very minimal in those early days. Members were limited to simply taking advantage of share/savings accounts. Interest was payable semiannually on the first day of January and July.

The original officers of the credit union were comprised of a nine-member Board of Directors, five Credit Committee members, and three Supervisory Committee members.

During the 1940 start-up, credit union business was transacted in the Secretary of State’s office in the Capitol building. But change is inevitable. Shortly after World War II, the credit union was recessed. However, the credit union was not yet finished fulfilling its role as a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution.

Starting Again

In January 1956, the State Capitol Employees Credit Union was reorganized by several of the charter members and other state employees. For many years, office space for the credit union moved to various locations in the Capitol building. Soon, a more permanent home would be found. In November 1968, the office was moved to 1212 Helena Avenue in Helena. The credit union’s assets at this time totaled $342,000.00.

After seven years in the Helena Avenue location, the State Capitol purchased land at one of its present locations (1820 11th Avenue) in 1975. A new building was completed and staff moved into their offices in the fall of 1976 where we continue business today. And, once again, change is inevitable.

Continued Growth

In 1981, the credit union acquired a building owned by the former Bozeman Federal Credit Union at 2631 West Main in Bozeman. The location became the branch office serving all of Gallatin County.

The credit union membership grew and land was procured to build a new facility in 1994. The Bozeman branch moved into its new home at 8645 Huffine Lane in December of 1996.

Expanding to Serve the Community

The sphere of membership for the State Capitol had yet another store change. In the fall of 1999, the Credit Union’s membership requirements were expanded yet again to include all persons who live or work in Lewis and Clark County. In May 1999, the Board of Directors began work to select a new name that would better represent the credit union’s expanded membership of all of Lewis and Clark and Gallatin counties as well as state employees in 20 other counties. The name “Rocky Mountain Credit Union” was chosen and approved by the Montana State Division of Financial Institutions and the Secretary of State on October 18, 1999.

Our field of membership has continued to grow with mergers with Yellowstone Conference Federal Credit Union, MPS- -Blue Shield Federal Credit Union, and Montana Citizens Community Federal Credit Union over the years.

In the fall of 2004, the credit union opened an additional branch in Helena at 3400 N. Montana Avenue. The new facility serves as the main branch and another easily accessible location for the members.

In January 2013, the credit union opened the Belgrade, Montana branch at 90 West Madison Ave to serve members from the surrounding community.

Building on a Legacy of Growth

On November 1, 2016, Rocky Mountain Credit Union merged with Heritage Federal Credit Union, marking a significant milestone in its history. This merger brought RMCU into the Butte community, expanding its reach and enhancing its ability to serve members across Montana. Heritage Federal Credit Union, originally founded as the Safeway Federal Credit Union, brought its rich legacy of service into the fold of RMCU’s growing story.

The following year, in November 2017, RMCU deepened its commitment to the Gallatin Valley community by opening a second branch in Bozeman at 1840 Baxter Lane. This modern facility offered expanded access and convenience for the region’s growing membership.

In 2018, RMCU achieved another notable milestone by transitioning its deposit insurance to American Share Insurance (ASI), becoming the first privately insured credit union in Montana. This change allowed RMCU to enhance its service offerings while maintaining a strong commitment to financial stability and member trust.

Resilience Through Challenging Times

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges, but RMCU demonstrated resilience and unwavering dedication to its members. Throughout the lockdowns and uncertainties, the credit union maintained operations without closing any branches or laying off staff. By adapting quickly to changing circumstances and focusing on member needs, RMCU upheld its mission of service during a time when it was needed most.

Continuing to Grow and Serve

In 2022, RMCU celebrated another moment of progress with the relocation of its Belgrade branch. Moving from the Madison Avenue location to its permanent home at 101 Thunder Road, the new facility was designed to provide members with an improved banking experience while supporting the credit union's ongoing growth in the community.

The credit union hit a milestone in its growth in 2024, surpassing $400 million in assets and solidifying its place as one of the top credit unions in Montana.

Looking Ahead

Rocky Mountain Credit Union’s story continues to evolve, guided by its commitment to innovation, community engagement, and exceptional service. There’s no doubt that our years of success since our humble beginnings in 1940 are directly due to our members/owners. As the credit union looks to the future, it remains dedicated to partnering with its members and strengthening the communities it serves.