Altana Federal Credit Union (then Laurel Federal Credit Union) started in 1949 out of an empty railcar in Laurel, Montana. Several refinery workers joined together and started the credit union as a way to safeguard themselves from the high cost of banking services. The first loan given was to purchase a sewing machine. Altana has grown to offer seven locations, a wide range of products and services and a nationwide free ATM network. Altana serves residents throughout Yellowstone, Carbon, Stillwater, Sweet Grass, Golden Valley, Wheatland and Musselshell counties in Montana