CONTACT:  Kay Cook                                                  Exhibit 99
  TELEPHONE:     501/378-1207
  RELEASE DATE:  Immediate


                          WORTHEN BANKING CORPORATION
                                  NEWS RELEASE


       LITTLE ROCK, AR, (October 14, 1994) --- Andrew Melton, executive vice
  president, treasurer and chief financial officer of Worthen Banking
  Corporation (ASE:WOR) today announced his resignation from Worthen.

       Melton, who joined Worthen Banking Corporation in 1986, stated, "After
  eight and a half years of participating in Worthen's recovery and return to
  the premier financial institution in Arkansas, I feel it's time to move on to
  other challenges. I am confident that the remaining management team at Worthen
  will achieve a smooth transition to Boatmen's."

       Worthen Banking Corporation announced on August 18, 1994, that it had
  entered into an agreement in which Boatmen's Bancshares Inc. (NASDAQ:BOAT)
  would acquire 100% of the outstanding shares of Worthen Banking Corporation in
  a one-to-one stock exchange transaction. The agreement with Boatmen's to
  acquire Worthen is the culmination of the record of achievement compiled by
  Worthen from substantial net losses incurred 1985 - 1987 to record profits
  earned during the early 1990's.

       Curt Bradbury, chairman and chief executive officer of Worthen Banking
  Corporation, stated, "Andrew made significant contributions to the success of
  our company. He was instrumental in the expansion of Worthen's presence
  through acquisitions in the most vibrant economic markets of Arkansas. We wish
  him the best in his future ventures."


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