Abstract:
In 1957, Robert P. Holding, Sr., who had guided a Smithfield bank, First-Citizens Bank and Trust Company, through three decades of growth, died at age 59. His sons, Frank B., Robert P., Jr., and Lewis R., took over the bank's operations. There were those who doubted the sons were up to the task; however, starting in 1957, with resources of $220 million and 45 branches in 31 communities, the bank, over the next thirteen years, grew to have resources exceeding $650 million and 144 branches in 60 cities and towns.