Mandan, N.D. — Residents were left disappointed this week after a construction project at Fort Lincoln State Park turned out to be just another bank.
On-A-Slant Bank & Trust, located at the previous On-A-Slant Indian Village, will be several stories tall and feature stunning views of the Missouri River. It will also offer a 24/7 drive-through and ATM.
Fort Lincoln State Park officials say despite the community’s initial disappointment with the project, they feel the bank will provide a steady source of income to support the park’s future.
“On-A-Slant Indian Village will always hold a special place in our hearts, but unfortunately, it just wasn’t a reliable source of income for our park,” says Fort Lincoln State Park Director of Bank Development, Justin Cash. “Ultimately, we decided the village-site would be the optimal location for a bank. The views are second-to-none and if there’s one thing North Dakotans like, it’s a big beautiful bank.”
To honor the heritage of the bank’s location, the developer agreed to name the bank On-A-Slant Bank & Trust.
“We had been in touch with several developers in the area and discussed a number of projects, including a gas station and convenience store, but felt that there were not any banking options near the park and our community could really use another bank,” says Cash. “And we feel we’re really honoring the bank’s location by naming it On-A-Slant Bank and Trust.”
On-A-Slant Bank & Trust will feature a stunning 12-foot tall statue of George Armstrong Custer near the entrance. Inside, the bank will feature timber beams constructed from the same wood that supported the earth lodges at the previous On-A-Slant Indian Village. A coffee and snack station will feature coffee brewed with water from the Missouri River, and tipi-shaped cookies.
“And everyone that opens a new checking account will receive a handsome set of coasters featuring General Custer’s image,” says Cash.
The new branch at Fort Lincoln State Park is one of many banking projects taking place in the Bismarck/Mandan community. Later this year, Sunset Memorial Gardens will be renovated to make way for Sunset Memorial Bank And Trust. Family members who have loved ones buried at the memorial gardens have until September to remove their remains.
“There’s definitely a need for another bank in the Bismarck/Mandan community,” said a North Dakota Department of Commerce spokeswoman. “We’re excited about both bank projects, including On-A-Slant Bank & Trust. We’re pretty sure it’ll be a big hit with everyone, including our state’s Native American population. I wouldn’t be surprised if folks are lining up already to open a new account.”
According to a recent study published by the North Dakota Department of Commerce, the Bismarck/Mandan metro area has approximately 7.2 banks per capita.
The Flickertail Times is a satirical/humor blog featuring all things North Dakota. Feedback? We’d love to hear it. Send it all to: editor@flickertailtimes.com
