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CFM was organized in 1869 as the Aid Association.
In that year, a group of farmers in the community which is now
Concordia and its trade territory, having the courage and initiative
required for success, set out to organize what is today known
as the Concordia Farmers Mutual Insurance Company. This organization
took place only a few years after the end of the Civil War, when
the suffering resulting from it had not yet ceased and the political
and racial strife had not entirely subsided in this period in
our history. It took a great deal of courage and determination
to work together for the common good of all to establish a farm
mutual insurance company which has served Lafayette and adjoining
counties since 1869.
While researching the old company records, we discovered that
a knowledge of the German Language was required to become a member
of the company in its early years and this restriction for membership
remained until 1917.
The Company conducted business for 61 years without issuing
policies. A man's word was the only thing needed to guarantee
insurance protection.
Prior to legal incorporation of the Company, it was known as
Freedom Farmers Fire Benevolent Association. On November 14,
1930, the Company was legally incorporated as Freedom Farmers
Insurance Company. The reference to freedom probably originated
because the Company was located in Freedom Township, Lafayette
County.
On March 30, 1938, the current company name of Concordia Farmers
Mutual Insurance Company was adopted for use.
In 1969, the Company celebrated its 100th Anniversary
and moved into a new Home Office which was constructed to coincide
with the anniversary.
On October 6, 1981, CFM was granted a certificate
of authority by the Department of Insurance to offer insurance
on a non-assessable basis and write insurance state wide.
Concordia Farmers Mutual has operated continuously
since 1869 and it is the oldest business in Lafayette County. |
