In 1978, eight women stepped into a man’s world—and built their own bank.
Just four years before, women in the U.S. couldn’t get a credit card or open a bank account without a man to co-sign. Financial independence was not a right—it was something you had to ask for.
So in Denver, Colorado, eight courageous women set out to change the rules.
Carol Green, Judi Wagner, LaRae Orullian, Gail Schoettler, Wendy Davis, Joy Burns, Beverly Martinez, and Edna Mosely each invested $1,000 of their own money. Their goal? To create the first bank by women, for women.
A place where women could open an account, apply for a loan, and be treated as equals—not as exceptions.
On July 14, 1978, the Women’s Bank opened its doors.
The line to get in stretched down the block.
By the end of that first day, more than $1 million had been deposited.
It wasn’t just a financial institution—it was a revolution, fueled by ambition and determination.
These women didn’t wait for permission.
They didn’t quietly ask for change.
They built something new—and better.
Today, millions of women worldwide manage their money, grow their businesses, and build wealth on their own terms.
All because in 1978, eight women decided equality couldn’t wait.