T he Hills Bank Customer Appreciation Barbecue began after Albert Droll purchased the 1972 Johnson County Fair Champion Steer from Gary Stock. 250 customers were invited to the first event, which was held behind the bank with the staff preparing the food. The meat was cooked in pits with seasoned hardwood to provide a hot bed of coals. This all-night process assured tender, juicy beef for the sandwiches that were served. The barbecue was such a success that it became an annual tradition. By the late 1990s an average of 8,000 customers and friends were attending the barbecue in Hills—quite a sight to behold. To feed the massive crowd it took: 3,300 pounds of beef
Albert Droll and Gary Stock with the 1972 Johnson County Champion Steer.
The barbecue was a great way to show the bank’s appreciation to its customers. Over the years the barbecue became a family event for Hills Bank customers and friends. However, due to heavy traffic and safety concerns, the annual event was discontinued after 2001.
288 gallons of potato salad 236 gallons of baked beans 6,720 cartons of ice cream
488 gallons of iced tea 2,832 cartons of milk 300 volunteers
Aerial view of the 1997 barbecue at the Hills Ballpark.
1972 The first bank barbecue is held, beginning a 29-year tradition of hosting the customer appreciation event.
1975 The bank reaches a milestone, marking $30 million in assets. There are 15 employees.
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