What is now Peoples Bank was established in 1910 to meet the changing needs of consumers. Banks at that time were primarily interested in making consumer or commercial loans, not home loans. The Association, originally called The First Polish National Building and; Loan Association, was the center of church and social activities in East Chicago, Indiana. Peoples was the first savings and loan association to receive a federal charter in East Chicago in the aftermath of the Great Depression. As economic conditions improved, the association assets grew to $655,851 while employing eight full time workers. In the 1950s, the bank took an active part in assisting service men to purchase or build homes through G.I. loans. During this housing boom, a decision was made to expand from a one-office operation. The Woodmar section of Hammond provided a growing area of retail business along Indianapolis Boulevard at the time and was therefore chosen as a second location.

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