15101. National Bank (Fishkill, NY)

Bank Information

Episode Type: Run → Suspension → Closure
Bank Type: national
Bank ID: 971
Charter Number: 971
Start Date: January 1, 1877*
Location: Fishkill, New York (41.536, -73.899)

Metadata

Model: gpt-5-mini
Short Digest: 03763815

Response Measures

Full suspension, Books examined

Other: Embezzlement by cashier Alexander/ Alexander Bartow (name variants in OCR) led to suspension and appointment of a receiver; runs were reported on the co-located Fishkill Savings Institute (a separate institution) rather than clearly on the National Bank itself.

Description

Cashier Alexander (or Alexander/ A.) Bartow/Borton embezzlement discovered in early January 1877. The National Bank of Fishkill suspended in mid-January 1877 while experts examined accounts; a run occurred on the colocated Fishkill Savings Institute (limits on payouts). A receiver was later appointed (articles refer to a receiver by Jan 1878 and trial references). OCR variants of cashier name (Bartow/Borton/Barrow) appear in sources; treated as same person Alexander Bartow, the embezzling cashier.

Events (3)

1. January 1, 1877* Receivership

Newspaper Excerpt: Dr. Lewis H. White testified that he was president of the bank from May, 1874, until the appointment of the receiver, in January, 1877.
Source: newspapers

2. January 13, 1877 Suspension

Cause: Bank Specific Adverse Info
Cause Details: Cashier charged with large deficiency ($20,000 to $130,000 reported); misappropriation of bonds and overdrafts discovered led the National Bank to suspend payments pending expert examination.
Newspaper Excerpt: The bank has suspended business until the result of an examination of its accounts by experts is known.
Source: newspapers

3. January 14, 1877 Run

Cause: Bank Specific Adverse Info
Cause Details: Run on the Savings Institute started after discovery that National Bank cashier misappropriated bonds and large deficiencies in the National Bank's accounts.
Measures: Savings bank refused to pay out any sums over $500; treasurer paid out limited sums and officers sought funds to meet demands.
Newspaper Excerpt: A run on the Fishkill Savings Bank has been begun... the bank refused to pay out any sums over $500.
Source: newspapers

Newspaper Articles (16)

1. January 13, 1877 Alexandria Gazette Alexandria, VA

Article from Alexandria Gazette, January 13, 1877

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News of the Day. Mrs. E. S. Hamilton, an old blind lady living near Waterford, in Loudoun county, was accdentally burned to death last week. At the last meeting of the County Court of Clarke county, Virginia, W. N. Struder was fined $50 and costs for unlawfully shooting Alexander Neville. All of the New York papers DOW think that neither of the priocipals in the May-Beo nett duel has received a scratch, and that the extent of the meeting was a siogle exchange of shots. Between ten and tifteen schooners sank off Aucapolis harbor yesterday afterpoon, being eut through with ice. The steamer Falcon, from Withington, N. C., after deliveriag her passengers at Annapolis, also sank in the harbor. A fire in Luray, Virgioia, Thursday last, destroyed the Union Hotel and the residence of Dr. D. H. Brumback. Ashby & Whartoo. attorneys; J. M. Litchliter, sadier; M. L. Welfley.attoroey; J. G. N wmao, attorney; and Miller & Bruwback, physiciaos, were also sufferers. The third annual convention of the Young Men's Christian Association of Virginia, met in Petersburg yesterday. Reports were received from various branches of the Associa tion in different quarters of the State, and interesting exercises held. The convention will adjourn to-morrow night. The following circular has been sent to the employees of the New Orleans, Jackson and Great Northern Railway: "No man who indulges in the use of intoxicating drink cao trust himself, nor 3an he be safely entrusted with the movement and running of trains; and it is intended todeny. as far as practicable, employ ment to those who use intoxicating drinks." Mrs. Carriogton, widow of the late General Edward Carrington, of Halifax, and the sister of the late Col. Wm. C. Prestoo, of South Carolina, the present Geo. John S. Preston, of the same State, Col. Thomas L. Preston, of Albemarle county, of the first wife of Gov. Wade Hampton, and of the wife of the ate Gov. John B. Floyd, died in Charlottsville last Wednesday. The cashier of the National Bank of Fishkill, New York, who has been one of its officers for more than twenty years, and "always bore a good character." is charged with being short in his cash $20,000 to $60,000. It is stated that the amount may exceed the latter sum. He says that he sold bonds left with him for safe keeping to pay over drafts. The bank has suspended business until the result of an exam. ination of its accounts by experts is known. A riot took place at the Westboro State Re form School, in Worcester, Massachusetts, yesterday evening. About 100 boys were en gaged in the uprising, and the signal was given by shutting off the gas in the school rooms. The fight was a desperate one for a few minutes. every article of furniture in two of the rooms being completely demolished. The officers suc ceeded in keeping the rioters in rooms until help was summoned, and then subdued them by the free use of water from the hydraut. None of the officers or men were seriously burt, and none of the boys escaped. The democratic members of the Pennsylva pia Legislature have agreed that DO member offer any resolution in either house that would cause a political discussion without first submitting the same to a caucus. A committee of five was appointed to draw resolutions 00 the Presidential question, which will be submitted to the Legislature probably on Monday night next The Pennsylvania Senate has passed a resolution depouncing threats of violence as beiog intended to prevent or imperil the declaration and confirmation of the constitutional election for President and Vice President.

2. January 13, 1877 The Daily Dispatch Richmond, VA

Article from The Daily Dispatch, January 13, 1877

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Louisiana. ANOTHER BALLOT FOR REPUBLICAN UNITED STATES SENATOR. NEW ORLEANS, January 12.-The Republican Legislature had another ballot to-day, resulting-Pinchback, 29: Antoine, 22; Beattie, 12 Lewis, 11. The remainder were scattering. THE SITUATION UNCHANGED-BOTH PARTIES WAITING FOR ORDERS. NEW ORLEANS, January 12.-There has been in the yesThe weather is wet exceedterday. no change situation and since ingly are disagreeable. Washington Both parties before taking awaiting orders from further action. THE REPUBLICAN SENATE STILL WITHOUT A QUORUM. NEW ORLEANS, January -The Republican Senate is still without a quorum. Four senators who absented themselves have had an interview with Packard, but the result is unknown. The State-House police are on the qui vive, armed rifles. Governor Packard received a number of telegrams from Washington last night, but beyond the statement that they are encouraging he declines giving their purport. He is evidently more hopeful than he was yesterday of recognition by the national authorities. POSITION OF THE GENERAL GOVERNMENT TOWARDS LOUISIANA. WASHINGTON, January 12.-Governor Nicholls telegraphs Representatives Levy and Ellis this afternoon that the situation is unchanged; everything is quiet and likely to remain so, and that the Republican Legislature shows unmistakable signs of dissolution. The position of the General Government towards the Louisiana State government remains unchanged. INAUGURATION OF GOVERNOR COLQUITT, OF GEORGIA-PATRIOTIC ADDRESS. ATLANTA, January 12.-Governor Alfred H. Colquitt was inaugurated before an immense audience at 12o clock to-day. A large part of his inaugural paper was devoted to urging economy in the State government to relieve the burdens of the people. The Federal matters was enthusiastiand is as majority grand cally part applauded, on popular follows: be of read the the In recent the gubernatorial election is to overwhelming interest that Georgians feel in the issues now convulsing the country, determined purpose with the our and alignment great their patriotic seeking millions to keep of by the in friends, who are instrumentality good to northern peaceful reestablish government of lawful Federal under suffrage Con- the undisputed supremacy of the stitution. [Long applause.] I but speak my own deep-felt sentiments, and echo the public voice of Georgia, when I say that in all the complications of national politics, now so replete with fervid interest, we stood in immovable sympathy with the elected exponent of constitutional liberty, retrenchment, and reform, and will adhere to him and his colaborers in the Federal Congress in every patriotic endeavor they may make to secure the unmistakable will of a large majority of the American people constitutionally expressed at the polls. [Applause.] THE PENNSYLVANIA SENATE ON THE SITUATION. HARRISBURG, January 12.-The Senate today passed a resolution. agreed upon in caucus yesterday, denouncing the threats of violence as being intended to prevent or imperil the declaration and confirmation of the constitutional election for President and Vice-President. A NEW YORK BANK-OFFICER IN TROUBLE. POUGHKEEPSIE, January 12.-Alexander Borton, cashier of the National Bank of Fishkill, is charged with a deficiency of $20,000 to $60,000. Experts are examining his accounts. Borton says he sold the bonds left at the bank for safe keeping to pay the but declines to names of making the overdrafts, the persons counter overdrafts. give the to-day. No money was paid over the It is stated that no business will be transacted until the result of the examination is known. Borton has been connected with the bank over twenty years, and always bore a good character. SUSPENSION OF A BANK, &C. BOSTON, January 12.-The Mechanics Savings Bank. established in 1874, has suspended. On the 24th of December there were $446,961 due depositors. The recent failure of Huddle & Zetinger, in Philadelphia, has caused some commotion here, where their liabilities are heavy. There are claims against the firm of nearly $600,000 held by Boston banks and firms. FIRE AT BROCKPORT, N.Y. ROCHESTER, January 12.- fire at Brockport, caused by the explosion of a kerosene lamp;destroyed the old Methodist church, with other buildings. Loss, $40,000. HEAVY SNOW-STORM AT CHICAGO. CHICAGO, January 12.-There has been a snow-storm for thirty-six hours. In the country the fall was even heavier. The weather is cold.

3. January 15, 1877 The Sun New York, NY

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FISHRILL'S MISSING BONDS. Great Excitement in the Quiet Village-A Rua ou the Savings Bank. POUGHKEEPSIE, Jan. -The loss of the National Bank of Fishkill by the Bartow Irregularities will probably be heavier than was at first supposed. The report that the misappropriated bonds belonged to the savings bank, which does bustness in the same building, was incorrect. So far as can be ascertained, all the bonds taken to New York and hypothecated by Cashier Bartow were the property of individuals who had placed them in the bank for safe keeping. W.S. Ladue of Fishkill Hook had $2.500 in bonds there. Mr. Bartow. when asked by Ladue about them. said they had been used for the bank. John F. Berry had $7,000 in 10.40s and $1.700 in 10-30s. He says the troubled cashier told him they went through the bank. and that he was all right. Edward Lyster of East Fishkill had $3,000 disposed of in the same manner. Samuel Hosted of Putnam county deposited $6,000: they, too. are gone. John S. Emans had one $1,000 bond, but he savs it was credited to him on the books of the bank. This incomplete list foots up $21,200, and new losses are turning up almost hourly. A gentleman who was talking to a group in one of the stores yesterday morning said that the expert had thus far unearthed a deficiency of $130,000. Another said that Cashier Birtow, and th bank through him. has lost beavily in the Datebess Ore Company. Leonard Horton of that company, when spoken to about the matter. desired to have it understood that this was not the case, but he did not deny that the bank had lost by the company. A very prominent citizen of Fishkill, said to have an overdrawn account at the bank. has aid that Cashier Bartow spent considerable money for election purposes. He was a zealous Dolttlcian. and an enthusiastic supporter of Tilden. Mr. John F. Berry SAYS that Bartow told him that $20,000 had 12 ne in the ore company. Another man said that a prominent Poughkeep. sin had overdrawn his account some $8,000 or $10.000. A statement was also made openly that the agent of the bank was in Cold Spring last Thursday on his usual tour of collection. and received deposits from customers. This was after the trouble in the bank was known. The bank officers maintain silence. Acting Cashier Hapelje said on Saturday that some of the men who had made the heaviest overdrafts had already appeared at the bank and promised to make everything good. The names of these gentlemen are withheid. In the absence of positive information, there is a feeling 10 banking circles in Poughkeepsie that the officers of the bank will be compelled to put up the shutters. A run on the Fisukill Savings Bank has been begun. add it is understood that the bank refused to pay out any sums over $500. All the farmers, mechanics, servant girls. and laboring women besteged the doors yesterday, and the treasurer was kept busv. He paid out $12,000 on Friday. and more to-day. but the bidgest run on the bank is expected on Monday, and the President left town on Saturday to obtain funds to meet it. There are over 150 depositors who reside in Cold Spring. and they will undoubtedly all appear at the bank to-morrow. The Treasurer is certain the bank will pull through all right. Leading men of the village also say that the savings bank will side over tue trouble.

4. January 15, 1877 The Daily Dispatch Richmond, VA

Article from The Daily Dispatch, January 15, 1877

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The cashier of the National Bank of Fishkill, New York, who has been one of its officers for more than twenty years, and "always bore a good character," is charged with being short in his cash from $20,000 to $60,000. It is stated that the amount may exceed the latter sum. He says that he sold bonds left with him for safe keeping to pay overdrafts. The bank has suspended business until the result of an examination of its accounts by experts is known. The Liverpool report of the British wheat markets has no special change to note. They have ruled quiet, with few transactions, though prices are well maintained. A fair demand is noticed for cargoes of wheat off the coast at a small improvement. Corn has been held firmly for more money, and at the close three pence per quarter advance was realized for American, both new and old. A strip of the roofing of the Grand Central depôt, New York, about three hundred feet long and three feet wide, was crushed in by the weight of the snow falling upon it from a higher part of the building Friday. Fortunately no trains were in the depôt at the time, and no person was injured. Several car-horses were severely cut by the falling glass.

5. January 15, 1877 The New York Herald New York, NY

Article from The New York Herald, January 15, 1877

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FISHKILL'S DEFAULTING CASHIER. THE DEFICIENCIES SAID TO BE INCREASINGMISAPPLICATION OF TRUST FUNDS-RETICENCE OF THE OFFICERS OF THE BANK RUN ON THE FISHKILL SAVINGS INSTITUTE. POUGHKEEPSIE, Jan. 14, 1877. All of the affairs of the National Bank of Fishkiii are still in doubt, except in the fact that the deficiencies will probably be heavier than was first reported. There was a statement made on Friday or Saturday last that the misappropriated bonds were those of the savings bank which does business in the same build. ing. This was all wrong, and has worked an injury to that bank which 18 very annoying. So far as can be ascertained all of the bonds taken to New York and hypothecated by Cashier Bartow were the property of individuals who placed them in the National Bank of Fishkill for safe keeping, or, in other works, "III trust." This list alone foots up $21,200, and new losses are turning up almost every hour. It is stated that the expert who IS bandling the books had thus far unearthed a deficiency of $130,000. Should tats prove true the general impression IS the bank will have to wind up its affairs. It is reported that Cashier Barrow, and the bank through him, has lost heavily in the Dutchess Ore Company. Leonard Horton, of that company, when spoken to about the matter, desired to have 11 understood that such was not the case, but he did not deny that the bank had experienced some losses by the company. The bank officers maintain silence and insist that they can say nothing until the examinat on of accounts is finished. THE LIST A LONG ONE. It was stated that Cashier Bartow had furnished a list of the bonds hypothecated by him in New York, together with the amount of each and name of owner. All attempt was made to secure the list for the press, but the officers refused 10 exhibit it, saying. however, that such a list had been handed them by Mr. Bartow. and significantly added i'll 18 a long one." That was all that could be ascertained about the matter. Acting Cashier Rapleje stated on Saturday that some of the mea who had made the heaviest overdraits had aire idy appeared at the bank and promised in person to make everything good. The names of these gentlemen are withheld. It is possible that the expert now at work on the books will finish to-morrow or next day. When he started ne thought 11 would take him three days, but he has already gone over that time. In the absence of positive information there 18 a feeling in bank. ing circles in Poughkeepsre that the officers of the bank will be compelled to put up the shutters. THE SAVINGS INSTITUTE. As to the Fishkill Savings Insuinte. it is believed it is affected by the National Bank's troubles, but not seriously. However, there was a run commenced on 11 yesterday. and it 18 understood that the bank refused to pay out any sums over $500. All the morning tarmers. mechanics, servant girls and laboring people besteged the bank. and the Treasurer, Thomas E. Dearin, was kept busy paying out deposits. He paid out $12,000 on Fruay, and more yesterday. but the biggest run on the bank IS expected to-morrow, and the President left town on Saturday to obtain funds to meet 12, and will no doubt succeed. There are over 150 depositors who reside in Cold Spring, and they will undoubtedly all appear at the bank on Monday. The Treasurer says they will meet every demand if they have to pay over mortgages held by the bank. He 18 certain they will pull through all right. Leading men of the village also reel that the suvings bank will tide over, and the dismissed ca-hier of the National Bank is anxious to have the people understand that 1a no way have the funds of the Savings Institute becn tampered with or unisappropriated

6. January 15, 1877 Chicago Daily Tribune Chicago, IL

Article from Chicago Daily Tribune, January 15, 1877

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THE FISHKILL BANK. POUGHKEEISIK, N. Y., Jan. 14.-A special to the Eagle from Fishkill says the affairs of the National Bank in that village are still in doubt. Later reports make the deffelency by overdrafts run A has rango from 870,000 to $130,000. commenced on the Savings Bank In the same building, which will be largely increased us morrow, but the officers say they can meet all demands promptly.

7. January 25, 1877 Mexico Weekly Ledger Mexico, MO

Article from Mexico Weekly Ledger, January 25, 1877

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EAST. Lucille Western, the well known actress, died in New York City on the 11th. The New York Chamber of Commerce has petitioned Congress for the removal of the War tax on banks and bankers. Three Claddagh fishermen, blown off the coast of Galway, Ireland, during a terrible gale, were picked up in an open smack on the sixth night out, by a passing vessel, and landed in New York on the 12th. They had suffered terribly, and two of their com⑉01 rades were drowned. James Gordon Bennett, one of the partic ipants in the recent duel, sailed for Europe on the 13th Alex, Barton, Cashier of the National Bank of Fishkill, N. Y., is charged with a deficiency of from $50,000 to $100,000, and the Bank has temporarily suspended payment. Ten schooners of the Gloucester fishing fleet aremissing, and doubtless lost, and the crews shave probably perished. The schooners carry an average of ten men each. Daniel Marcy is the Democratic candi+ date for Governor of New Hampshire. The Massachusetts Legislature commenced balloting for United States Senator on the 17th. The first ballot resulted as follows: Boutwell, 96; Hoar, 93; Abbot, 60; Rice, 17; Bullock, 4; Seelye, 4, Sanford, 1. The suspension of Orrin, Benedict & Co., hat manufacturers of New York, with liabilities of $150,000, throws out of employment 250 operatives in their factory at Bethe!, Connecticut. The Union Trust Company of New York was a few days since defrauded out of $64,000 by a skillfully forged check. Horace E. Brown, a "curbstone" broker, has been arrested for complicity in the affair.

8. October 31, 1877 New-York Tribune New York, NY

Article from New-York Tribune, October 31, 1877

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WASHINGTON NOTES. WASHINGTON, Tuesday, Oct. 30, 1877. William M. Burwell has been appointed Register of the Land Office at New-Orleans. The President has recognized Mr. A. Schrieber as Consul of the Netherlands at New-Orleans. The Controller of the Currency has declared a dividend of 20 per cent in favor of the creditors of the National Bank of Fishkill, N. Y., making in all a dividend of 45 per cent. The Committee on Privileges and Elections met this morning, and had a discussion as to what course they would pursue in the investigation of the credentials of Messrs. Kellogg and Spofford, and, without coming to any conclusion, adjourned until Thursday next. Senator Blaine left here at half-past 1 o'clock to-day, by the New-York train over the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad, for his home at Augusta, Me. He was aecompanied by Mr. Thomas Spearman, his private secretary. A special car was assigned to him, which will go through to Augusta. The Vice-President has selected the following named gentiomen to constitute the committee, authorized by the Republican caucus to-day, to report on a mode of ascertaining and declaring the vote for President and VicePresident of the United States : Senators Edmunde, Conkling, McMillan, Davis, of Illinois, Teller, of Colorado, Bayard, Thurman and Morgan. The committee will be announeed to-morrow. A National Convention of letter-carriers met at Metrotropolitan Hall, in this city, yesterday. The following were unanimously chosen as officers of the convention George Perry, of Cincinnati, President; J. N. Richardson, of Baltimore, Vice-President; Gus A Wimmer, of Philadelphia, Secretary ; Moses Church, of Woreester, Mass., Assistant-Secretary, and Howard L. Hoyatt, of Washington, Treasurer. The United States Consul at Honolulu has trausmitted to the Department of State official copies of the imports from the United States to the Hawaiian Islands, during the year ending September 9, 1877, as compared with the two preceding years, showing a large increase in the trade, which is claimed to be th result of the treaty of 1875. The total imports for the year amounted to $1,545,136, an increase of $597,876 and $775,728 over 1875 and 1876 respectively. The mass-meeting of Workingmen at Odd Fellows Hall, last night, to sympathize with the striking tailors of this city, was very largely attended, and was addressed by Representative 8. 8. Cox, Messrs. Thomas, McDonald, Cares and several others. A telegrom was read from Jus. Smith, President of the International Tailors' Union. who resides at Springfield, III., stating that money will by sent to the strikers, and everything done to make the strike a success. More than half of the employing tailors are now paying the price demanded.

9. January 16, 1878 New-York Tribune New York, NY

Article from New-York Tribune, January 16, 1878

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THE FISHKILL BANK EMBEZZLEMENT. The trial of Alexander Bartow, indicted for embezzling funds of the National Bank of Fishkill, N. Y., of which he was cashier, was begun yesterday before Judge Benedict in the United States Circuit Court. General B. F. Tracy, counsel for the defendant. objected to the jury on the ground that one of the twelve had not been regularly impanelled. After argument, the court overruled the objection, and Assistant District-Attorney Herrick proceeded to open briefly for the Government. Dr. Lewis H. White testified that he was president of the bank from May, 1874, until the appointment of the receiver, in January, 1877. He admitted that he knew little of the actual workings of the bank, and that Mr. Bartow had. practically, the entire management of the details of the institution. Lawrence E. Rapelge, the former vice-president of the bank, and Bartow's successor as eashier, testified to substantially the sawe facts as the ex-president. Mr. Phillips, a clerk in the bank was called to identify certain false entries in the books. General Tracy objected to the first material question asked ot this witness, on the ground that the first count of the indictment was so defective that no evidence could be introduced under it. This point he proceeded to argue at length, and the court adjourned at his conclusion. The trial will proceed to-day. Assistant District-Attorney Herrick is assisted by Messrs, Fiero and Butler, and the prisoner has retained General Tracy, and William J. Thorn, of Poughkeepsie.

10. January 16, 1878 The Sun New York, NY

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# Ex-Cashier Barton's Trial. Alexander Barton, ex-Cashier of the broken National Bank of Fishkill, was put on trial yesterday on a charge of making false entries on the bank books in 1875. Before the bank went into the hands of a receiver, a year ago, about $350,000 had disappeared, some of it having been lost in bad investments, and a large amount having been stolen.

11. January 18, 1878 The New York Herald New York, NY

Article from The New York Herald, January 18, 1878

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THE COURTS. Continuation of the Trial of Ex-Cashier Bartow. A. HORSFALL IN COURT. Charge of Fraud Against a Boston Liquor Dealer The proceedings in the trial of Alexander Bartow, ex-cashier of the Fishkill Bank, were continued yesterday before Judge Benedict and a jury. Mr. Herrick appeared for the government and General B. F. Tracy for the defendant. At the opening yesterday Mr. Herrick offered in evidence a certified copy from the Comptroller's office showing the organization of the National Bank of Fishkill. After some objection by the defence the paper was admitted. Mrs. Phoeb Baldwin testified that she resided at Fishkiil and had known Bartow several years. She exhibited a certificate of deposit, . signed by Alexander Barlow, and dated May 1, 1877. She had received it from Mr. Bartow. Witness made a deposit of $1,600 on the date mentioned; part of it was in money, amounting to $440, and the balance in certificates of deposit. Mr. Browning, the teller of the bank, was recalled and testified, alter looking at the certificate, that such certificates were issued generally and that the president, cashier and teller had authority to issue such certificates. He examined the lodger and then testified that there was 110 record of Mrs. Baldwin's deposit on the date referred 10. It was elicited on examination that the entry was made in the journal. General Tracy then submitted to the Court that the count having reference 10 this entry should be stricken out. and also said that up to that time + n the trial nothing had been proved to show the guill of the prisoner. The Court allowed the witness to proceed. but shortly alterward said that there was not enough evidence to sustain the count in the indictment which referred to Phoebe Baldwin, but allowed the District Attorney to give other evidence in relation to it. Mr. E. P. Dykeman was sworn. and testified that he never paid $21,000 in any one sum 10 the bank; that he failed in business at the time the bank suspended, and that be had not yet pays anything to his creditors. Mr. Lyster, a director of the bank, testitled that at a meeting of directors the defendant had said to witness that the account of Dykeman was not correct. At the close of the testimony ot Mr. Lystor the Court adjourned until this morning.

12. January 19, 1878 The New York Herald New York, NY

Article from The New York Herald, January 19, 1878

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THE COURTS. Bottom Facts of the Fishkill Bank Defalcation. GIVING BOSTON THE COLD SHOULDER. Important Point as to Oaths Required of Referees. The trial of Alexander Bartow, ex-cashier of the Fishkill Bank, was continued yesterday in the criminal branch of the United States Circuit Court, before Judge Benedict and ajury. Mr. Herrick appeared on behalf of the government and General B. F. Tracey for the defendant Mr. W. E. Browning testified that checks were drawn by Dykeman, and that they were paid after the credit of $21,000. On cross-examination the witness said that the account with Wilmingding, Duer & Co., on the 12th of December, 1874, showed an indebtedness of $54,000. Mr. Bartow had sole charge of that account. Mr. Henry Bostwick was next called and said that he was director of the National Bank of Fishkill from 1872 to 1877, and was now receiver. The capital of the bank was $200,000. He knew E. P. Dykeman. He had conversation with Bartow in relation to the Dykeman account. He had moved, as director, in January, 1876, that the loan to Dyke man should be reduced. Mr. Bartow was then acting as clerk. He read out the item of $21,000 to Bartow, who told witness that Dykeman had never deposited it and that the credit was not correct. He stated further that he was present at the regular meetings of the board of directors generally, but could not say that he was present at every meeting He lived twenty miles away from the bank. The question of granting interest to persons who made certificates of deposit never came up, according to his knowledge, at the meeting of directors. On cross-examination he stated that the credit of $21,000, as shown on the books, left Mr. Dykeman a debtor to the bank about $40,000; in his conversation with Bartow about Dykeman's credit 01 $21,000 Bartow said that it was a wrong entry; Bartow did not go into explanation as to why that credit was put there; his mind was. clear that Bartow said that the entry was wrong, and that "wrong" was the word used. Mr. Van Wythe was the next witness, and said that he was a director of the bank, but he did not know what the practice of the bank was in reference to the issue of certificates of dieposits, and only knew what 11 was from the conversation that bad taken place among the directors SILMCO the trouble of the bank; the subject of certificates of deposit was never before the directorate. Assistant District Attorney Herrick, after the examination or Mr. Van Wythe was concluded, said that 11 was near the time of adjournment and that the next witherls, the last witness for the government, would occupy nearly half a day. He, therefore, would ask then for an adjournment. General Tracey objected. Ee said tbat the trial had proceeded very slowly and it was a great burden to lingants and counsel. He would undertake to assert that any fair-minded man would say, on looking at shis case, that it could have been tried in a day. The Court here, however, notwithstanding the opposition to adjournment, adjourned to next Monday morning. BENJAMIN BROWN'S EXTRADITION. The matter of the extradition of Benjamin Brown, claimed under a requisition from the Governor of Massachusetts, already reported in the HERALD, came up in the Marine Court, before Judge Sinnott, yesterday, on a side issue. When Judge Barrett, in the Supreme Court, disposed of the habeas corpus, which had been issued in lavor of the prisoner. adversely to him, it appeared that he was still held by the Sheriff under an order of arrestissued from the Marine Court, in a suit brought against him by Morris Herzhold and another for $400. This order of arrest had been ISsued on the allegation that Brown had incurred the debt by falsely representing that he owned a mortgage for $2,500 on a "sample room'' in Boston, besides other property. This mortgage is alleged to be the same which forms the grounds of the Massachusetts' prosecution, it being there charged that atter nrst getting a loan of $1,500 on the mortgage note (the mortgage itself being a part of the collateral), he again borrowed on the mortgage, alleging that Le had lost the note. The case, as It came before the Court yesterday, was on a motion to vacate the order of arrest. This motion was made on the part of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, by Mr. À. H. Ammidown, on the ground that the allegation of false representations, on which the order was issued, was not true, and that the order was the result of collusion between Brown and some other partace. The faisity of the allegation, counsel contended, was apparent from the fact that It appeared that Brown had only pledged the mortgage us coliateral, SO that the legal title to it remained in him at the time 18 was alleged ne told plaintiff he owned it, and that the conspiracy might be interred from the fact that the false statement as to ownership, relied upon by plaintiffs, was, by the defendant himself, admitted to be false, waile in law it was true. Mr. Joseph J. Stein, who appeared as counsel for the plaintiffs, in opposition to the motion submitted an affidavit menying absolutely any collusion or conspiracy in obtaining the order arrest, alleg10g that the plaintiffs were only acting in good faith by using diligence 10 secure an honest debt, and that only in this regard did they incidentally delay the extradition of the prisoner to the State of MassachuBetts to answer there whatever charge they might have against him, a charge which, he said, if well founded, could be as well enforced after DIS client's case had been disposed of as now. He also stated that he would like an opportunity to submit further affidavits showing perfect good faith and legal right

13. February 17, 1879 The Sun New York, NY

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FISHKILL'S PLUNDERED BANK. How the 806,000 in Bonds were Stolen from the Savings Institute. POUGHKEEPSIE, Feb.16.-The exa mination in the Fishkill Bank suits was continued before Referee Brewster yesterday. The first witness was John S. Langworthy, Deputy United States Controller of the Currency. He exhibited six $10,000 bonds which had been cancelled. They were the ones originally signed by the Fishkill Savings Institute to Wilmerding & McCandliss, New York. Witness also exhibited a copy of a resolution by which the bonds were assigned. the resolution being dated 1862. It is signed James E. Dean, President, and Charles E. Bartow, Secretary of the Fishkill Savings Institute and the seal of the institute is affixed to it. It purported to be a copy of a resolution upon the books of the Savings Institute when in fact no such resolution can be found on the books. Nor was James E. Dean President, nor Charles E. Bartow Secretary of the institute in 1862. Charles E. Bartow, the next witness. swore that he was not Secretary of the Savings Institute until 1872. ten years after the date of the resolution referred to: yet he also swore that his signature to the resolution was genuine. When pressed to say when he fixed his name to it he couldn't tell. He had no recollection of the past at all. He said he never intended to sign it as certifying that such a resolution was on the books of the bank or had ever been passed by the bank authorities. nor did he ever compare the resolution with the books of the Savings Institute. The theory is that Alexander Bartow, the convicted Cashier, took the resolution to him. and, telling him that it was a copy of one on the books. got him to sign it. James E. Dean next testified that he did not become President of the Savings Institute until the fall of 1869. He was shown the six $10,000 bonds. and recognized his signature on the back of them as genuine. He swore that when he signed them he signed them in blank. An examination of them shows that they were assigned to Wilmerding & McCandlies, New York. On his cross-examination witness said that as President he had the custodianship of the bonds, but they were in charge of the Treasurer (Alexander Bartow). He said that the $60,000 stolen bonds were formerly kept in the savings bank. but the year before the National Bank of Fishkili suspended the Savings Institute passed a resolution depositing them with the Safe Deposit Company. New York, where the Savings Institute had a safe. Witness had a key to the safe, and Bartow the key to the tin box inside. Not to the knowledge of witness were the bonds ever placed in the tin box. The first he knew that they were gone was on Jan. 8. 1877, and they were never used with the knowledge or consent of witness. The examination was adjourned to March 5. at the Astor House, New York.

14. February 17, 1879 The New York Herald New York, NY

Article from The New York Herald, February 17, 1879

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THE FISHKILL BANK SUITS. SIGNATURES TO THE COPY OF THE FICTITIOUS RESOLUION ASSIGNING THE SIX TEN THOUSAND DOLLAR BONDS GENUINE-NAMES AFFIXED WITHOUT EXAMINATION OF THE RECORDS-A NEW ELEMENT IN THE LEGAL CONTESTS. POUGHKEEPSIE, Feb. 16, 1879. The examination in the Fishkill Bank suits was continued before Referee Brewster yesterday, and all of the evidence given was highly important. The first person called to the stand was John S. Langworthy, Deputy United States Comptroller of Currency. He exhibited six $10,000 bonds which had been cancelled. They were the ones originally assigned by the Fishkill Savings Institute to Wilmerding & McCandliss, New York, and witness also exhibited a resolution, or copy of it, on which the bonds were assigned, the resolution being dated 1802. It is signed James E. Dean, president, and Charles E. Bartow, secretary of the Fishkill Savings Institute, and the seal of the institute is affixed to it. It purported to be a copy of a resolution upon the books of the savings institute, when, in fact, no such resolution can be found on the books, nor was James E. Dean president nor Charles E. Bartow secretary of the institute in 1862. A SECRETARY'S BAD MEMORY. Charles E, Bartow was placed upon the witness stand, when he swore he was not secretary of the savings institute until 1872, ten years after the date of the resolution referred to, and yet he also swore that his signature to the resolution was genuine. When pressed to say how or when he fixed his name to it he couldn't tell; he had no recollection of the fact at all, and swore he never intended to sign it as certifying there was such a resolution on the books or ever passed by the bank authorities. Nor did he ever compare the paper or resolution with the books of the savings institute. The theory is that Alexander Bartow, the convicted, cashier, took the resolution to him and, telling him it was a copy of one on the books, got him to sign it, without his taking any pains whatever to look into the matter. TESTIMONY OF PRESIDENT DEAN. James E. Dean was next sworn, and he testified he did not become president of the savings institute until the fall of 1869. He was shown the six $10,000 bonds and recognized his signature on the back of them transferring them as genuine. He swore also that when he signed them he signed them in blank. Att examination of them shows they were assigned to Wilmerding and McCandliss, New York. On his cross-examination witness said as presi" dent he had the custodianship of the bonds, but they were in charge of the Treasurer (Alexander Bartow). A discussion followed, during which the knowledge of bank presidents generally as to what is going on in their banks, and howithe business is transacted, was criticised One of the counsel in the case is a bank president, and the referee called the attention of the lawyers. present to the fact that the counsel alluded to, while looking at one of the books of the bank before them, had to be shown which was the debit and which the credit side. (Laughter.) The witness testified that the $60,000 stolen bonds were formerly kept in the savings bank, but the year before the National Bank of Fishkill suspended the savings institute passed a resolution putting them into the Safe Deposit, New York. The savings institute had a safe there. Witness had a key to the safe and Bartow the key to the tin box inside. Not to the knowledge of witness were the bonds ever placed in the tin box. The first that he knew they were gone was January 8, 1877, and they were never used with the knowledge or consent of witness. The above is the most important part of the testimony given yesterday, and then an adjourument was effected till March 5, when the examination will be continued for two days, at the Astor House, New York. A NEW LEGAL CONTEST. During the day a new item of interest cropped out; which reveals a new fight over $15,000 in addition to the amount already involved. It seems that the day before the National Rank of Fishkill suspended Alexander Bartow, the cashier, drew a check on the Merchants' Exchange Bank of New York for $15,000, with which he took up a loan on the Bowery Savings -Bank made in 1873, and took the bonds which belonged to individuals and deposited them in the savings institute. The receiver of the national bank knew nothing of this transaction, and as fast as the owners of the bonds applied for their property settled with them for sixty cents or thereabout on a dollar. Now that the receiver has ascertained the above fact he will sue the savings institute for the $15,000 worth of bonds. and it he is successful the claim of the savings institute against the national bank will be. $45,000 instead of $60,000, or $15,000 less.

15. October 20, 1879 Evening Star Washington, DC

Article from Evening Star, October 20, 1879

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Suit Against a Bank Receiver. NEW YORK, Oct. 20.--The Fishkill Savings Bank has sued Henry Bostwick, receiver of the National Bank of Fishkill, for conversion of certain government bonds owned by the plaintiff. The answer was a general denial. The case was referred to counsellor R. A. Brewster and he found for the plaintiff in damages amounting to $83,475.12. An appeal was taken to the general term and was argued in Brooklyn this morning. The ground is that the cashier had fraudulently appropriated the bonds. The decision was reserved.

16. October 21, 1879 The New York Herald New York, NY

Article from The New York Herald, October 21, 1879

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RECEIVER BOSTWICK AND THE BONDS. Argument on appeal was heard before the General Term, Supreme Court, Kings county, yesterday, in the suit of the Fishkill Savings Institute against Henry Bostwick, receiver of the National Bank of Fishkill and the Bank of Fishkill, for the conversion of $70,800 of government bonds owned by the plaintiff. The referee before whom the case was formerly tried reported in favor of the plaintiff. The Court reserved its decision.