

                           Exhibit 23(a)
                           -------------


                  CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement
(Form S-8 No. 333-_____) pertaining to the Russell Federal Savings Bank 1995
Stock Option and Incentive Plan of Peoples Bancorp Inc. of our report dated
February 6, 1998, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of
Peoples Bancorp Inc. incorporated by reference in its Annual Report (Form
10-K) for the year ended December 31, 1998, filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission.


                                /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
                                    Ernst & Young LLP


Charleston, West Virginia
September 3, 1998


