Two Community Banks. One Shared Commitment.
Blackhawk Bank & Trust acquires Liberty Trust & Savings Bank.
Coming Together to Serve Our Communities
Blackhawk Bancorporation, Inc. (“Blackhawk Bancorporation”), the parent company of Blackhawk Bank & Trust (“Blackhawk Bank”), and Liberty Bancorporation (“Liberty Bancorporation”), the parent company of Liberty Trust & Savings Bank (“Liberty Trust”), announced today that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement under which Liberty Bancorporation will merge with Blackhawk Bancorporation. Upon completion of the transaction, Liberty Trust will merge into Blackhawk Bank, with Blackhawk Bancorporation and Blackhawk Bank continuing as the surviving entities.
While our names will come together, our shared commitment to local relationships, community banking and personal service will remain at the heart of everything we do.
Growing Together
For generations, Blackhawk Bank & Trust and Liberty Trust & Savings Bank have built their businesses around strong customer relationships, local decision-making and a commitment to the communities they serve.
By coming together, we have the opportunity to build on those shared values while expanding the resources, locations and services available to our customers.
This combination represents an important next step for two organizations that share a very similar approach to community banking. Liberty Trust is an excellent cultural and strategic fit for Blackhawk. Together, we will be better positioned to offer expanded capabilities, greater convenience, and the resources of a larger organization while preserving the personal service and local decision-making our customers value. We are committed to a thoughtful, seamless transition and creating long-term value for our customers, employees, shareholders, and communities.
Eric Huiskamp Mutka, President & Chief Executive Officer
What This Means for Our Customers
For now, it’s business as usual. Customers of both Blackhawk Bank & Trust and Liberty Trust & Savings Bank should continue banking just as they do today. As we move through the regulatory approval and transition process, we will communicate important information well in advance of any changes.
Same familiar faces
We intend to retain Liberty’s existing employees, allowing customers to continue working with the bankers they know and trust.
Same local relationships
Local service, community involvement and relationship banking will continue to be an important part of who we are.
More opportunities ahead
Together, the combined organization will offer customers an expanded network and broader access to banking services.
Our Growing Footprint
Durant, ia
502 8th Ave.
P.O. Box 1118
Durant, IA 52747
Lobby Hours:
Mon - Fri: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Sat: Closed
Drive-thru Hours:
Mon - Thur: 8:15 AM - 4:00 PM
Fri: 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM
Sat: Closed
tipton, ia
101 E. South St.
P.O. Box 366
Tipton, IA 52772
Lobby Hours:
Mon - Fri: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Sat: Closed
Drive-thru Hours:
Mon - Thur: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Fri: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sat: Closed
new liberty, ia
562 Hendricks St.
P.O. Box 38
New Liberty, IA 52765
Lobby Hours:
Mon - Thur: 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Fri: 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM,
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Sat: Closed
Liberty Trust & Savings Merger Q&A
Why are Blackhawk Bank & Trust and Liberty Trust & Savings Bank coming together?
Blackhawk and Liberty share a similar approach to community banking, including a focus on customer relationships, local decision-making, employees and community involvement. Bringing the two organizations together allows us to build on those shared values while expanding the resources and locations available to our customers.
Is the merger complete?
Not yet. The transaction remains subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. The transaction is currently anticipated to be completed during the fourth quarter of 2026.
Do I need to do anything right now?
No. Customers should continue banking as they normally do. If any action is needed in the future, we will provide information and instructions well in advance.
Will Liberty Trust & Savings Bank locations remain open?
Yes. Blackhawk Bank & Trust intends to retain Liberty’s existing banking offices in Durant, New Liberty and Tipton.
Will Liberty employees remain with the bank?
Blackhawk Bank & Trust intends to retain Liberty’s existing employees.
Will my account number change?
At this stage, customers should continue using their accounts as they do today. Any future changes affecting accounts will be communicated before they take effect.
Will online and mobile banking change?
For now, customers should continue using their existing online and mobile banking services. Additional information about digital banking will be provided as the transition progresses.
Will my debit card or checks change?
Customers may continue using their current cards and checks. If any changes are needed as part of the transition, customers will receive advance notice and instructions.
Where can I get updates?
We’ll continue to update this page as the transition moves forward. Customers can also follow Blackhawk Bank & Trust on social media for the latest news and updates.
About Blackhawk Bank & Trust
Founded in 1961, Blackhawk Bank & Trust is a locally owned community bank headquartered in Milan, Illinois. For 65 years, we have focused on building lasting relationships, making decisions locally and supporting the communities we serve.
Today, Blackhawk provides personal, business, mortgage, commercial and wealth management services throughout the Quad Cities and surrounding communities.
updates & Progress
As we move forward with the Liberty Trust & Savings Bank merger, we’re committed to keeping customers informed every step of the way. Check back here for important updates, frequently asked questions and information about what to expect.
October 1, 2026 — Blackhawk Bancorporation Announces Agreement to Acquire Liberty Bancorporation
Read press release here