Fidelity State Bank of Orofino was a part of the Waterman bank system which had its main office in Clarkston, WA. The Orofino bank was located on the corner of Johnson and College where Walrath Insurance is now.

This is a photo of the building built for Fidelity State Bank of Orofino at a later date when it was Walrath Realty. (Photos courtesy of Clearwater Historical Museum.

According to newspaper articles of the time, when the bank closed April 8, 1921, depositors were told that they would get 100 percent of their money. It closed due to 'inability to realize on their securities'. The depositors formed committees to look out for their interests.

However, as it turned out some did not get their money, including North Fork Highway District which had several thousand dollars in the bank. The district sued the receiver in an attempt to get their money back, but the conclusion of the case was not available.

Harriet shared these memories: "Among my Mother's things, I found a savings book from the bank. I am not sure I remember the name exactly right. I asked her about it and she said it failed and she lost her savings. When I visited my Grandfather Walrath at Walrath Insurance, it was still configured as a bank with windows, vault, etc. I asked about it and was told it was the former bank location."

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