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Our History

From our beginnings in 1971, we have always stood for strength and courage; pride and fierce determination. This holds true today, as we continue to grow and expand beyond our southern Georgia roots.

 

A FUTURE BUILT ON A STRONG LEGACY

 

Ameris Bank opened its doors as American Banking company on October 1, 1971. What started as one location, with $1 million in capital in Moultrie, Georgia, has now evolved into a publicly traded bank headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.

Our founding father, Eugene M. Vereen, Jr., envisioned a bank for the future. He and other board members set out to create a collective mindset that doesn't rely on tired banking norms or cookie-cutter solutions. Rather, they set the foundation for a bank that looks beyond tradition to create solid, innovative solutions.

A half-century later, Ameris Bank leaders and employees continue to build on this legacy by providing advanced products and services led by an industrious spirit — all with the purpose of improving the lives of our customers and enriching our communities.

 

1971

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Opened as American Banking Company on October 1, 1971.

1979

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First Acquisition -- Toney Brothers Bank In Doerun, GA.

1980

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The Holding Company was formed, incorporated and named ABC Holding Company.

1987

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ABC Bancorp conducted its first public stock offering.

1994

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ABC Bancorp publicly traded on Nasdaq Exchange.

1996

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Expansion into Alabama.

2001

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Expansion into Florida.

2005

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ABC Bancorp rebrands to Ameris Bank.

2006

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Completion of a multi-charter collapse to a single charter and one brand: Ameris Bank.

2019

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Ameris Bank rebrands and moves headquarters to Atlanta, GA.

2020

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Ameris Bank expands commercial banking across the southeast.

2021 - Expansion to North Carolina. Balboa Capital acquisition.

 

 

                                          

WE ARE  LIONHEARTED

Our lion logo is symbol of our strength and courage.
It signifies our pride, determination, and constant pursuit of excellence on behalf of our customers.