Progressive Building Society Mortgages

Progressive Building Society in the 21st century is different in so many ways from the building society that was formed in 1914. This organisation is now one of the "Top 20" building societies in the United Kingdom, a sign of its strength today that has been woven from the threads of service and commitment provided by many individuals over the decades.

Today, the Progressive Building Society is such an integral part of the life of Northern Ireland that it is difficult to imagine its more humble origins. It was founded in 1914 by Samuel R Howard and was born out of the merger of 5 smaller societies, opening its doors in Belfast's Lower Garfield Street

 

Samuel Howard helmed the fledgling Progressive Building Society until 1940, steering it through some of the most tumultuous years of the 20th century. War was followed by crash and depression and then by war again. During these often dark days, such an enterprise could consider itself victorious if it merely survived. Hardly surprising then that, despite his diligence and hard work, Samuel Howard retired in 1940 from an organisation whose assets totalled just £8,000.

However, he had helped to create a firm foundation and, as the world began to change giving birth to the society we know today, the Progressive Building Society was poised to play its part.

Samuel Howard was succeeded by H R Brown, economics graduate, school teacher and son of a founder director. He brought to the organisation a disciplined mind, a firm grasp of social and economic realities and a real vision of the Progressive's future. Under his leadership, the Society's assets increased to £200,000 in 1954. By this time, running such a substantial organisation was a full time job, and Mr Brown left teaching to devote himself to it.

His single-mindedness paid off ; by 1960 assets stood at £1 million. The 60's was of course, a time of growth, expansion, excitement. In a Progressive era, the Progressive thrived. Overall, the building society movement grew apace with property development. By 1965, assets were £3 million and the Society, which had helped so many people to find homes, began to look for one for itself. 1967 saw two highly significant events: the Progressive Building Society's move to its current home base, Progressive House in Belfast; and the opening of its first branch in Bangor.

This era of growth continued, with the Progressive passing more landmarks in the following years. By the end of the 1970's assets stood at £36 million and additional branches had opened in Ballymena and Newtownards.

By the time he retired in 1981, Mr Brown could look back upon more than 40 years of growth. From humble beginnings, the Progressive Building Society was now an integral part of life in Northern Ireland and still growing today.

To find out more about Progressive Building Society , simply complete the Progressive Building Society Mortgage Quote to receive details of the best mortgage to suit your individual circumstances. Alternatively call 0800 801079 to speak to a mortgage advisor.

 

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