21616. Bank of Lexington (Lexington, VA)

Bank Information

Episode Type: Suspension → Closure
Bank Type: state
Start Date: February 16, 1895
Location: Lexington, Virginia (37.782, -79.444)

Metadata

Model: gpt-5-mini
Short Digest: c596428e

Response Measures

None

Description

The Bank of Lexington was looted by its cashier C. M. Figgatt (defalcation/embezzlement) in mid-February 1895. The institution was effectively collapsed and suspended; a trustee/receiver (J. K. Edmondson) was appointed and the bank did not resume normal independent operations (Rockbridge Savings Bank was reported to take its place). This is a suspension due to bank-specific adverse information (internal fraud) followed by permanent closure/receivership. Dates are taken from newspaper reports in mid-February 1895 and subsequent reporting of receivership actions and dividends.

Events (3)

1. February 16, 1895 Suspension

Cause: Bank Specific Adverse Info
Cause Details: Large, long-running embezzlement/defalcation by cashier C. M. Figgatt (covering ~23 years), leaving a massive shortage (~$150,000–$160,000) and rendering the bank unable to meet deposits.
Newspaper Excerpt: The defalcation of Cashier Charles M. Figgatt, which has swamped the Bank of Lexington ... Business is practically suspended to discuss the situation.
Source: newspapers

2. February 17, 1895 Receivership

Newspaper Excerpt: The following statement shows the condition of the Bank of Lexington ... (Signed) J. K. EDMUNDSON, Trustee. ... Figgatt has swamped the $80,000 of the bank's capital stock and, in addition, $65,200.10 ... leaving cash due depositors the insignificant sum of $6,573.12.
Source: newspapers

3. March 25, 1895 Other

Newspaper Excerpt: Judge J. K. Edmondson, trustee of the Bank of Lexington, to-day paid the depositors one-fifth of the amount of their deposits.
Source: newspapers

Newspaper Articles (18)

1. February 17, 1895 The Norfolk Virginian Norfolk, VA

Article from The Norfolk Virginian, February 17, 1895

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Complete Conapse OT e e Through Figgatt's Defalcation. ALL BUSINESS PARALYZED His Embezzlement Covers a Period of Twenty-Three Years and Amounts to $65,000. His Fast Life. Others Implicated. Excitement. By Southern Associated Press. WASHINGTON, February 16.-A special to the Post from Lexington rays: The defalcation of M. Figgatt, which has swamped the Bank of Lexington, the only banking instiantion here and the principal financial agent of Rockbridge county, with a population of over 30,000 people, a large number of whom are prosperous well to do farmers, con innues to be the all absorbing topic. Business is practically suspended to discuss the situation. The news of the bank's collapse did not reach the county until late yesterday afternoon, and this morn ang at an early hour a large number of the country depositors came in to verify the report, which had not rereived much credit at first. When they got here they soon learned the worst. The bank directors,with perts, have been in session since yesterday continuously, trying to ascertain the bank's condition. 111 All day long the streets the viciuity of the bank have been dotted with groups of town and county people, depositors and sure ties on Cashier Figgatt's bond, discuseing the situation in all its phases. The consensus of opinion is surprise expressed that Cashier Figgatt's de falcations, covering a period of twenty-three years, since 1872, should have gone undetected by the president and board of directors, who are shrewd. practical business men and personally interested in the successful operation of the bank. Late this afternoon the first state ment was posted as 8 result of the work of the Board of Directors, and the long look-for announcement, upon which much speculation was made, was engerly read 'The first statement shows the condition of the Bank of Lexington as near as the examination made hurriedly, but it is believed to be approximately correct, indicates: Liabilities- Balance due deposit tors and banks, $198,402.42 This sum is made UD as follows: Balance due depositors, as per ledger, $167, 402.49; due per statement apparent ay as per loose statements, $25,000; balance due banks and bankers, 86,000, "Assets, cash on hand, $6,573.12; cash tickets, value $1,129.20; corpo ration bonds, $20,500; manufacturing counties bonds. $1,000; bills and notes, estimated value $100,000; real estate and tixtutures, $1,000. To balance $65,200.10, making $198, 102.43. (Signed) J. K. EDMUNDSON, Trustee. The statement develops the as rounding fact that Figgatt has ewamped the $80,000 of the bank's capital stock and, in addition, $65. 200.10 of the $72,000 belonging to depositors, leaving cash due deposstors the insignificant sum of $6, 673.12. The bank is therefore short $6. 200.10 in cash, with only a little over $6,500 with which to pay depositors $72,000. The Virginia Mil Stary Institute is out about $20,000, which will materially cripple that institution for a time, while the fund of Washington and Lee University foses nothing. All the professors and employee of the latter institution were paid a few days ago and their money was deposited 111 this bank. The col lapse therefore leaves them in a bad A six. A missing deposit of $8,000. prominent director of the bank in reply to an inquiry if Mr. Figgatt, the absconding cashier, and taken any of the bank's money with him, said to-day: "There was a deposit of $8,000, made the evening before the departure of Mr. Figgatt, of which there is evidence, but the money is not to be found," which statement would seem to explode the theory held here, based upon statements made in a note left by Figgatt, that he did not carry 11 cent. of the bank's money with him. It is now believed that Figgatt did take a large sum of money with him. Mr. E. K. Godwin, brother-in-law of Figgatt, and an assistant in the bank, was exonerated by Figgatt of any all blame in the defalcation. Rumors are flying thick and fast from various quarters that one of the most conservative men on the Board of Directors has stated that there at other people mixed up in this affair, with Mr. Figgatt, outside of the bank,and that interesting and startling developments are likely to come to the surface, involving others, an a few days. It is said that Figgatt left here with two large Falises heavily

2. February 17, 1895 The Morning News Savannah, GA

Article from The Morning News, February 17, 1895

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FIGGATT'S RUINOUS FLIGHT. HE LEAVES THE BANK $6,500 WITH WHICH TO PAY $72,000. A Probability That the Cashier Carried Considerable Money Away With Him in His Flight-Rumors of Startling Disclosures Involving Persons Outside the Bank-The Stealing Going on for TwentyThree Years-Where the Money Went alMystery Washington, Feb. 16.-A special to the Post from Lexington, Va., says: "The defalcation of Cashier Charles M. Figgatt, which has swamped the Bnak of Lexington, the only banking institution here, and the principal financial agent of Rockbridge county, with a population of over 30,000 people, a large number of whom are prosperous, We to-do farmers, continues to be the all-absorbing topic. Business is practically suspended to discuss the situation. The news of the bank's collapse did not reach the country till late yesterday afternoon, and this morning at an early hour a large number of the country depositors came in to verify the report, which had not received much credit at first. When they got here they soon learned the worst. "The bank directors, with experts, have been in session since yesterday, trying to ascertain the bank's condition. All day long the streets in the vicinity of the bank building have been dotted with groups of prominent town and country people, depositors and sureties on Cashier Figgatt's bond, discussing the situation in all its phases. Surprise is expressed that Cashier Fggatt's defalcations covering a period of twenty-three years, since 1872, should have gone undetected by the president and board of directors of the bank, who are shrewd, practical business men, personally interested in the successful operation of the bank, Late this afternoon the following statement was posted in the bank's window as a result of the work of the board of directors, and the long-looked for announcement, upon which much speculation had been made, was eagerly read: "The following statement shows the condition of the Bank of Lexington as near as the examination, made somewhat hurriedly, but which is believed to be approximately correct, indicates: "Liabilities-Balance due depositors and banks, $198,402.42. This sum is made up as follows: Balance due depositors as per ledger, $167,402.24. Due, apparently, as per loose statements, $25,000. Balance due banks and bankers, $6,000. "Assets-Cash on hand, $6,573.12; eash tickets, value, $1,129.20; corporation bonds, $20,500; manufacturing company's bonds, estimated, $1,000; bill's and notes, estimated, $100,000; real estate and fixtures, $4,000. To balance $65,200.10, making $198, 402.42. (Signed.) "J. K. Edmonson, Trustee. "This statement develops the astounding fact that Figgatt has swamped the $80,000 of the bank's capital stock, and in addition $65,200.10 of the $72,000 belonging to depositors, leaving in cash due depositors the insignificant sum of $6,573.12. The bank is therefore short $65,200.10 in cash, with only a little over $6,500 with which to pay depositors $72,000. "The Virginia military institute is out about $20,000, which will materially cripple that institution for a time, while the fund of Washington and Lee University loses nothing. All the professors and employes of the latter institution were paid a few days ago, and their money was deposited in this bank. The collapse, therefore, leaves them in a bad fix. "A prominent director of the bank in reply to an 'inquiry if Figgatt, the adsconding cashier, had taken any of the bank's money with him, said to a newspaper man to-day: 'There was a deposit of $8.000 made the evening before the departure of Mr. Figgatt, of which there is evidence, but the money is not to be found," which statement would seem to explode the theory held here, based upon statements made in a note left by Figgatt, that he did not carry a cent of the banks money with him. "It is now believed that Figgatt did take a large sum of money with him. "R. K. Godkin, brother-in-law of Figgatt, and an assistant in the bank, was exonerated by Figgatt of any and all blame in the defalcation. "Rumors are flying thick and fast from various quarters that one of the most conservative men on the board of directors has stated that there are other people mixed up in this affair with Figgatt, outside of the bank, and that interesting and startling developments likely to come to the surface, involving others in a few days. "It is said that Figgatt left here with two large valises heavily packed, and it is surmised that he took with him funds of the bank. The closing of the bank involves all branches of business and will seriously cripple trade here for some time to come. The county treasurer's funds were all in this bank. "Steps have been taken to arrest the fugitive cashier, and it is only a question of a few days before he will be apprehended, as he is a man that can be easily distinguished from many others. "Figgatt has been a dissipated man for years, and for a year past has drank hard, but he was not extravagant in his tastes or expenditures, but a simple liver. What he has done with the money is still a mystery." CANADA'S CABINET. Dissolution on the 26th Instant

3. February 17, 1895 The Times Richmond, VA

Article from The Times, February 17, 1895

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SHORTAGE OF OVER $145,000. Remarkable Detalcation of Cashier Figgatt of the Bank of Lexington. THE STATEMENT OF THE OFFICERS. Stis Hinted That Others are Implicated in the Embezz'ement-Figgatt Took Large Amount With Him. LEXINGTON, VA., Feb. 16.-Special.The defalcations of Cashier Charles M. Figgatt, which has swamped the Bank of Lexington, the only banking institution here, and the principal financial agent of all the people of this (Rockbridge) county. with a population of over thirty thousand people. a large number of whom are prosperous, well-to-do farmers, continues to be the all-absorbing topic. Business is practically suspended to discuss the situation and anxiously await some report from the bank directors. The news of the bank's collapse did not reach the county until late yesterday afternoon, and this morning at an early hour a Jarge number of the county depositors came in to verify the report. which had not received much credence at first, but when they got here they soon learned the worst. The bank directors, with experts, have been in session since yesterday, continuously trying to ascertain the bank's condition. WHY ALL ARE SURPRISED. All day long the streets in the vicinity of the bank building have been dotted with groups of prominent town and county people, depositors and sureties on Cashier Figgatt's bond, discussing the situation in all its phases, and the concensus of opinion is surprise expressed that Cashier Figgait's defalcations, covering a period of twenty-three years-since 1872-should have gone undetected by the president and board of directors of the bank, who are shrewd. practical business men, and personally interested in the successful operation of the bank and its affairs. Late this afternoon the following statement was posted in the bank's windows, as a result of the work of the board of directors. and the long-looked-for announcement upen which much speculation had been made, was eagerly read. after which the stillness and surprise was painful for a time: THE BANK'S STATEMENT The following statement shows the condision of the Bank of Lexington as near as the examination, made somewhat hurriedly, ,but which is believed to be approximately correct, indicates: Liabilities-Balance due depositors and banks, $198,402.42. This sum is made up as follows: Balance due depositors, as per ledger, $167,402.42; due per statement, apparently as per loose statements,$25.000; balance due banks and bankers. $6,000 Assets-Cash on hand,$6,673.12: cash tickets value, $1,129.20: Corporation bonds, $20,500: manufacturing companies bonds (estimated), $1,000; bills and notes (estimated value), $100,000; real estate and fixtures, $4,000. To balance, $65,200.10; making $198,402.42. J. K. EDMONDSON. (Signed) Trustee. SHORT OVER $145,000. This statement develops the astounding fact that Figgat has swamped the $80,000 of the bank's capital stock, and in addition $65,200.10 of the $72,000 belonging to depositors, leaving in cash due depositors the insignificant sum of $6,573.12. The bank is therefore short $65,200.10 in cash, with only a little over $6,500 with which to pay depositors $72,000. The Virginia Military Institute fund is out about $20,000, which will materially cripple that institution for a time, while the fund of Washington and Lee UniverMAY nothing. All the professors and employes of the latter institution were paid a few days ago. and their money was deposited in this bank. FIGGATT TOOK MONEY WITH HIM. The collapse, therefore, leaves them in a bad fix. A prominent director of the bank, in reply to an inquiry If Mr. Figgatt, the absconding cashier, had taken any of the bank's money with him, said to a newspaper man to-day: There was a deposit of $8,000 made the evening before the departure of Mr. Figgatt, of which there was evidence, but the money is not to be found." This statement would seem to explode the theory held here, based upon the statement made in a note left by Figgatt, that he did not earry a cent of the bank's money with him, and it is now believed that Figgatt did take a large sum of money with him. Mr. R. K. Godwin, brother-in-law of Mr. Figgatt, and an assistant in the bank, was exhonerated by Figgatt or any and all blame In the defalcation. OTHER PEOPLE MIXED UP IN IT. Rumors are flying thick and fast from all quarters that one of the most conservative men on the board of directors has stated that there are other people mixed up in this affair with Mr. Figgatt, outside the bank, and that interesting and startling developments are likely to come to the surface, involving others, in a few days. It is said that Figgatt left.here with

4. February 19, 1895 Richmond Dispatch Richmond, VA

Article from Richmond Dispatch, February 19, 1895

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BANK. LEXINGTON'S ARREST OF ASSISTANT-CASHIER R. K. GODWIN-HE IS BAILED. Other Arrests to Follow-Where Some of the Stolen Funds Are Supposed to Be-Suspicious of a Former Bank Officer. LEXINGTON, VA., February 18.-(Speclal.)-The assistant cashier of the defunct Bank of Lexington, Mr. R. K. Godwin. has been arrested and a bail for $500 required. In a few minutes a ball. not for $500 but $7,000. was furnished by his friends. The arrest was caused by one of the stockholders, who made a director get out*the warrant. It was stated and came to the ears of the stockholder that Mr. Godwin knew of Cashier Figgat's juggling with the bank's funds and remonstrated with him. The latter replied that he had enough life insurance and real estate to cover all. This occurred some years ago. Recently he informed Mr. Figgat that the matter could not go on any longer. and this caused his flight. Mr. Godwin was completely overcome when the large amount of shortage was made known to him. Other arrests are likely to follow. and sensational developments are looked for. The money, or a large portion of it, is thought by many to be in the hands of outside parties, who are residents. HAD DRAWN OUT. A former prominent bank official had drawn all his money out some time ago, and held very little of the stock at the time of the failure. Many think that he was aware of the approaching collapse. He also severed his connection with the bank in the capacity of one of its officers at the last annual meeting held for the purpose of electing officers for the new year. ESTEEMED AND TRUSTED. Mr. Figgat was held in esteem and trusted by all. He came from Botetourt county here in 1857, and was employed as a clerk by the late Mr. John H. Myers in his dry-goods store. He served all through the war and was secretary for General J. Jackson He came back here after the war, and as he has often said. had just seventy-five cents in his pocket at that time He was made a clerk in the bank by his former-employer, Mr. Myers. who was cashier. When the Bank of Lexington was instituted he was made the cashier and served until the collapse. From that time on matters have been growing worse. ANTICIPATED. He evidently anticipated the present catastrophe, for one of his letters to a friend was dated January 1. 1895. and the deed of trust was written in January, and from reliable authority is in the handwriting of a relative. He was evidently aware that with the change of bank officials which was made at be Inst election and the statement of his brother-in-law that his wrongdoings would come to light In a letter left to a friend he stated that his downfall dated from 1874, when he allowed Colonel Asher Harman, a contractor on the Valley railread. to overdraw his account and the bank officials made Mr. Figgat make the same good So far as could be learned nothing has been heard of his whereabouts. He also borrowed large sums of money from many people and gave his bond for the amount: his friends endorsing for him The exact amount of his indebtedness in this direction cannot at present be ascertained. DESCRIPTION. C M. Figgat is a heavy-set man, weighs 185 pounds, height five feet ten inches, legs slightly howed. short gray beard. full gray moustache eyes dark gray almost brown walks slightly stooped and very slowly on account of some inward affection: full stomach. ruddy complexion face flabby, very affable in manners and smooth of speech. Talks slowly and nods his head as he talks His hair has been dark. but is now two-thirds gray his appearance shows him to be adicted to drink Always wore a dark slouch hat. and had on a dark-gray sult when he left. Age about 60 years. May now be shaved. MASS-MEETING A large mass-meeting of the representative citizens of the town and county was held in the court-house to-day. Hon. 1 R Tucker presided. The following resolutions were offered by Mr M. W. Paxton and unanimously adopted: Resolved That a committee of seven be appointed, who shall represent to the authorities that it the sense of this meeting that the Governor be at once requested to offer a reward for the apprehension of C. M. Figgatt, the defaulting cashier Resolved That the committee be authorized to respectfully request Judge Houston to call a special grand jury. to be composed of the best citizens of Rockbridge county, who shall thoroughly investigate the affairs of the Bank of Lexington Resolved. That this committee shall be authorized to take such steps which may be necessary to bring to justice those responsible for its failure THE COMMITTEE The following committee was appointed: M W Paxton, A. D. Estill, J F Tompkins, I J. L. Kinnear Tate Sterrett. D. B. McClung and Professor C. A Graves.

5. February 20, 1895 Richmond Dispatch Richmond, VA

Article from Richmond Dispatch, February 20, 1895

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THE LOOTED BANK. FURTHER DISCLOSURES A RESULT OF THE INVESTIGATION. Total Amount Due Depositors and Banks, $212,010-Figgatt's Actual Defalcation, $159,200-The Irvine and Staub Packages-Exeitement. LEXINGTON. VA., February 19.-(Special.)--The investigation of the collapsed Bank of Lexington's affairs continues. An additional shortage of $14,000 was discovered to-day. This makes the total amount due depositors and other banks, as discovered up to date, to be $212,616.28. The remain the same, The assets formerly reported. shortage $133,202.32 due has reached to the A which $79,200. private memorandum-book showed positors found to-day, amount deposits not was de- on as of to $5,000, which were of the bank books. The any amounting total If all as Figgatt is $159,200. are held liable the taken by exact will be covered. The shortage bondsmen depositors' deficit state sets the as to how many will be brought of of affairs bondsmen different be into deter- the present state of affairs is not to mined at present, for intricate questions arise as to when and what periods his stealings cover. AMOUNT LIABLE FOR. The amount his bondsmen are liable for is $120,000. The trustee of the bank issued a call for deposit-books and the bank desk is filled with them. Examination of these books and a comparison with the ledgers has brought to light the additional shortand it may yet reach a sum. in his last statement to to his age, Figgatt rectors previous flight greater made the the the didue depositors $70,671, while showed $206,402. ment showed cash deposits to amount trustee's report be His $23,595.35, state- bank and the bank books on the day the closed showed $22,244.12. The trustee's also reshowed cash on hand $6,573.12, valueless tickets. cash tickets, of which nothing to be seen or no $6,000 port $8,500 absolutely in There there of made was was value. This shows that Figgatt $8,500. way with before his departure streets Among the rumors current on the was one to the effect that the absconding be cashier had left valuable papers to delivered to two prominent citizens-Mr. Charles W. Irvine and Mr. J. A. Straub. THE PACKAGES. Investigation of these rumors reveals following facts: On Saturday mornthe two large, sealed packages, addressed deing the above-mentioned persons, were to livered to them. Mr. Irvine opened the package bearing his name, and found the to be several negotiable notes, deed of trust on Buena he and Mr. Figgatt were mucontents and in which a Vista and lots. curtually interested; two bonds, to the amount of his last two $1,700. derency in the bank, amounting to word posits with the tickets of deposit. Not a accompanied this package. Mr. Straub to found the package addressed bonds to him and Rockbridge county the amount of the in the bank; the due cash contain him to nearly total asked amount balance Mr. $1,600. Mr. Straub had Figgatt being to invest his money for were him, time before, and the bonds bought some accompanied by a note saying: "I these bonds for you several weeks ago, to and have lately charged the amount your account." NOT CREDITED. These gentlemen. after ample considera- prestsent for Mr. J. L. to dent the bank, and stated tion, of Campbell, the held case the and told him that they of intact. Upon the books it was the had never achim, packages bank deposits examination found been that credited two Mr. Irvine, and that Mr. Straub's the to count was charged with the amount in re envelope. Both of these gentlemen to quested the President of the bank of the make a full and detailed report foregoing facts to the Board of Directors, which has been done. The County Treasurer to-day stated the unless money was borrowed closed for that schools would have to be county want of funds, and that there was a large which number of outstanding warrants the been paid. His deposits in were the second largest, The Virginia Military had to bank $15,000. not amounting had Institute $21,000 was the largest depositor, and rethere. The Governor to-day, at the of the Commonwealth's Attorney quest here, offered a reward of $500 for Figgatt's such arrest. His contingent fund for for emergencies was not sufficiently large him to make it more. ALARMING AMOUNTS. individual paper, with promi- the nent as endorsers, is surface Figgatt's men in alarming amounts. coming borrow to His in this direction was to and tell endorsers that met after a money method had been certain the and notes time. the He kept up the interest on all, investholders were satisfied with their ments. Now they are pressing them them for payment, and the strain to meet has a telling effect. The situation in the town and county the same; large crowds conto fill the streets, and the theme of conversation is cap- will sorbing continues tinue much ever-ab- the of the fugitive and how exciteture be realized to pay depositors. The even ment runs as high as ever, and not the "booms" caused as much.

6. February 20, 1895 The Times Richmond, VA

Article from The Times, February 20, 1895

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THE SHORTAGE GROWING. FIGGATS DEFALCATION AMOUNTS TO NEARLY $160,000. Result of a Further Examination-No Tidlogs as to His Whereabouts-Some Effeets of the Wreck. LEXINGTON, VA., Feb. 19.-SpecialThere have been some new and startling developments in the Bank of Lexington robbery by the absconding cashier, C. M. Figgat. President John L. Campbell, of the bank, gives out the following figures as.a result of the last investigation of the board of directors: Assets from all sources (same as previously reported). $133,202.32; liabilities due depositors and banks and bankers, $212,616.28. This makes an additional shortage of $14,000 over that previously reported in the statement of the board of directors made Saturday, which was $65,200. now making the shortage in sight $79,200, due depositors, which, with the $80,000, representing the capital stock of the bank runs up the steal to the grand total of $159,200. which is the amount so far known that Figgat has sunk for the bank stockholders and the confiding public as depositors. A private ledger of Figgat's has been found, in which was entered $5,000. representing individual depositors, which are not of record in the bank's books at all. This amount is included in the deficit given above. As a result of the notice posted yesterday by the bank officers, requesting all pass books of deposit and certificates of deposit to be handed in for comparison with the bank's books, a large majority of the depositors have promptly responded, and bank books are stacked head high. In the examination of these books, and a comparison of the entries with the bank's regular set of books, it is found that the shortage will be materially increased. HOW HE DECEIVED THE OFFICERS. As It is now known that Figgat's mode of falsifying the accounts of the bank were most systematic and wide reaching in their effect, covering, it is believed, almost every account kept with the institution, and it is a remarkable fact that F.gga possessed the faculty of carrying these accounts as he did, and successfully deceiving for twenty-three years the best business and financial talent of the county. Here is a sample of his system: A depositor would deposit, say, $400. against which he would check, say $14, leaving a balance of $386: when the directors would go to examine the books for balances they would find $400 to the credit of the depositor, with the $14 raised to $314, leaving a balance on the books of $86. In this way Figgat pocketed $3,600. The accounts were thus manipulated. balanced and reworked from time to time, and all checks were promptly returned each month. The directors had no way of checking the balances. The following is the last statement rendered the bank by Figgat, on the 9th of February, which, compared with that made by the trustee the day after the crash, shows a rotten condition: Saturday, February 9th.-Liabilities: Capital stock, $80,000: surplus fund, $17,000: profit and loss $1,246.53; exchange, $40.23; discount and interest, $529.46; individual deposits, $70,671.37: due to banks and bankers, $12,350.58; total, $181,838.17. Assets: Expense account, $223.63; property (real estate and fixtures). $4,300; bills and notes, $118,786.23; bond account, $25,500: due from bankers, $4,433.93; cash currency and checks, $28,593.38. Total. $181,838.17. VERY BAD SHOWING. A glance at these figures at once made it evident that the bank lacked in assets $65,200.10 of the mor ey required to pay depesitors, and that the stock which four years ago readily sold at $150 per share was a total loss. rnd estimate of the above of the bank was regarded as a liberal one by those who knew its financial condition. So far it is shown that when Figgat left he carried off at least $8,000 in cash, if not more, and his statement left in a note that he did not take away a cent with him has been exploded. The bonds of the absconding cashier and bank clerks amount to $120,000, which, if realized, will more than cover the amount due bankers. banks and depositors, but, of course, the $80,000 bank stock is a dead loss to the holders, on which not a cent will be realized

7. February 21, 1895 The Norfolk Virginian Norfolk, VA

Article from The Norfolk Virginian, February 21, 1895

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AFFAIRS AT LEXINGTON. Additional Shortage May Be Revealed. Bv Southern Associated Press. BICHMOND, Va., February 20.-A Lexington, Va., special to the Dispatch says: The situation of the affairs of the defunct Bank of Lex. ington remains about the same. The examination of the books and certificates of deposit continues and there is a probability of additions to be added to the already large amount of shortage of $159,000 as heretofore reported. The Board of Supervisors met today and took action to provide for the continuance of the county publie schools. The bondsmen of Figgat also held a meeting to day to take legal advice 111 regard to the matter. A part of the $14,000 ud. ditional shortage, as last reported, was between the Virginia Military Institute treasurer's account and the bank account. The Institute is run. ning as usual and there is no danger of its closing. As such reports have become scattered broad. east it 18 well to refute them. The institution is a State institution, and has Virginia for its backing. The Rockbridge Savings bank which will take the place of the sunken bank, will commence business on March 1st. The authorities have no clue whateveras to'tbe,fugitives' whereabouts.

8. February 21, 1895 Richmond Dispatch Richmond, VA

Article from Richmond Dispatch, February 21, 1895

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LEXINGTON'S BANK. INVESTIGATION CONTINUES-SITUATION IS UNCHANGED. Supervisors Meet to Provide for the Schools-Figgat's Bondsmen Confer-No Danger of the Institute Closing-Backed by the State. LEXINGTON, VA., February 20.-(Special.)-The situation of the affairs of the defunct Bank of Lexington remains about the same. The examination of the books and certificates of deposit continues, and there is a probability of additions to be added to the already large amount of shortage of $159,000, as heretofore reported. MEETINGS HELD. The Board of Supervisors met to-day, and took action to provide for the continuance of the county public schools. The bondsmen of Figgat also held a meeting to-day to take legal advice in regard to the matter. THE VICTIMS. A part of the $14,000 additional shortage, as last reported, was between the Virginia Military Institute treasurer's account and the bank-books account. The institute is running as usual, and there is no danger of its closing. As such reports have become scattered broadcast it is well to refute them. The institution is a State institution, and has Virginia for its backing. TAKE ITS PLACE. The Rockbridge Savings Bank, which will take the place of the sunken bank, willn commence business on March 1st. W. C. Stuart is the cashier up to the present. The authorities have no clue whatever as to the fugitive's whereabouts. WELL KNOWN. It would appear an impossibility for Figgat to remain in the United States without detection, for he is known personally to the thousands of young men who have attended the two institutions of learning here for the past thirty years. A Card from Colonel Harman. RICHMOND, VA., February 20, 1895. To the Editor of the Dispatch: In justice to myself I request you to publish this card, commenting on a paragraph in your Lexington letter, which reads as follows: "In a letter left to a friend Mr. Figgatt stated that his downfall dated from 1874, when he allowed Colonel Asher Harman, a contractor on the Valley railroad, to overdraw his account and the bank officials made Mr. Figgatt make the same good. "So far as could be learned nothing has been heard of his whereabouts. "He also borrowed large sums of money from many people and gave his bond for the amount, his friends endorsing for him. The exact amount of his indebtedness in this direction cannot at present be ascertained." There is no truth in this statement. If Mr. Figgatt was ever called on to make good any overdraft of mine I am not aware of it, or was ever informed of it, and there was no occasion for, his doing SO. My account was overdrawn once or twice. but on being notified of this I

9. February 22, 1895 Shenandoah Herald Woodstock, VA

Article from Shenandoah Herald, February 22, 1895

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PARTICULARS OF THE BANK WRECK AT LEXINGTON. Cashier Chas. M. Figgatt's Fall. L xington, Va., Feb. 17.-The following statement shows the condition of the Bank of Lexing. ton as near as the examination, made somewhit hurriedly, but which is believed to be approximately correct, indicates: "Liabilities.- Bilance due depositors and banks, $198,40242. Tris sum 18 made up as follows: Balance due depositors as per ledger, $167,402 42; due per statement apparently as per loose statements, $25,000; balance due banks and bankers, $6,000. "Assets.-Cash on hand,$6578 12; cash tickets, valne, $1,129 20; c orporation bonds, $20,500; manufacturing company's bonds, estimated, $1,000; bills and notes, es. tima'ed value, $100,000; rea! es tate and fixtures, $4,000; balance, $65,200 10, making $198,402 42 "J. K Edmond on, Trustee." This statement develops the astounding fact that Figgatt has swamped the $60,000 of the bank's capital stock and, in ad lition, $65,200 10 of the $72,000 belonging to depositors, leaving cash due depositors the insignificant sum of $6,572 12. The bank 18 therefore short, $65,200 10 in cash, with only a lit. tle over $6,500 with which to pay depositors $72,000. The Virginia Military Institu te fand is out about $20,000, which will materially crippleth it in stitu tion for a time. While the fund of Washington and Lee University d loses nothing, all the professors and employes of the latter insuto tion were paid a few days ago and their money was deposited in this bank. The collapse, therefore, leaves them in a bad fix. A prominent director of the bank, in reply to an inquiry if Mr. Figgatt, the absconding cashier, had taken any of the bank's money with him, said to a newspaper man yesterday "there was a deposit of $8,000 made the evening be fore the departure ot Mr. Figgatt, of which there is evidence, but the money is not to be found," which statement would seem to explode the theory held here, based upon statements in a note left by Mr. Figgatt, that he aid not carry 2 cent of the bank's money with him, and it is now believed that Figgatt did take a large sum of money with htm. Mr. R K. G d win, brother-in law of Mr. Figgatt and an assistant 10 the bank, was oxonerated by Figgatt of any and all blame in the detalcation. Rumors ars flying thick and fast from all quarters, that one of the most conservative meu on the board of directors has said that there are o her people mixed up in this affair with Mr. Figgatt outside of the bank, and that interesting and startling developments are likely to come to the surface involving others in a few days. The closing of bank involves all branches of business, and will seriously cripple business here for some time to come. The county treasurer's funds were all in this bank. Steps have been taken to arrest the fugitive cashier. The defalcations of Cashier Fig. gatt, which has swamped the only banking institution here and the principal financial agent of all the people of Rockbridge county with a population of over 30,000, a large number of whom are prospe 0 s, well-to do farmers, continues to be the all-absorbing topic. Business is practically suspended to discuss the situation and anxiously awaits some report from the bank directors. News of the collapse did not reach the county until late Friday afternoon, and yesterday morning,

10. February 24, 1895 The Times Richmond, VA

Article from The Times, February 24, 1895

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EXINGTON RECOVERING ROMHER RECENT SEVERE FINANMOTH TVIO e Rockbridge Grand Jury to Takes a Hand in the Matter and Interesting Developments are Expected, EXINGTON, VA., Feb. 23.-Special.has been one week ago to-day since el people of this town and county were rtled by the report that "The Bank of xington," the only banking institution Rockbridge county, doing a general nking business, accommodating the siness needs of a population of some irty thousand people, had gone to the ill, and was Mr. Chas. M. Figgat, the isted cashier for twenty-nine years, the st know man in the town and county, d possessing the full confidence of the siness public and county people in genall, had fled. leaving a shortage of arly one (hundred thousand dollars, e sum at first thought to have been the nount of his steal. now figured out to be out $159,000). made up of the stock of - bank, the day before reported to be Id at $150 per share, and nearly every Har of the $72,000 belonging to deposi"S. Never in the history of the county, th the possible exception of the anuncement of the Walker-Miller homie at Brownsburg, a few years ago, ve the people of this section been so rprised and worked up to such a pitch excitement. 'SHOWNY OR (ITHOM V lince the true situation was made own to the public, the people have Ily and nightly discussed the situation all its lights and the public mind has in at such a tension that little else t the bank robbery has occupied the nãs of the people. All manner of wild mors, speculation and fairy tales have en going the rounds and for several 01 sucures una 01 ouo signature e earth found it difficult to realize what is the true situation: what one would ar on one corner would be contradicted the middle of the same block and me other unreasonable story told in ice as the facts. 'o-day the excitement has all passed off d a more conservative view of the sition is being taken of the cold facts that ce this community and county: we are about our normal and the people have w faced the situation as they find asoning that there is no use to cry over lled milk; as a result the wheels of siness are moving again; true they 1.e but slowly but our people realize at they must make the best of their ndition and get down to work and re. ild again their finances. BUSINESS RESUMING. Staunch business men have been badly ippled by the bank crash, orphans, dows' trust and saving funds have been rept away from the possession of er confiding public in the honesty of ng trusted bank officer. The stock of at was regarded as double gilt edge rity of one of the strongest banks in e State have disappeared like smoke, d friendship, that priceless jewel, has en made to pay a premium on disnesty, as in the case of the sureties Figgat's bonds and individual paper, d old Lexington, "The Athens of the uth," must take upon her fair name is blot and go upon the record as having oduced a Napoleon of Finance, the peer any known quarter of this great couny , whose methods neither spared kinsen, friends, widows, orphans, the rich, e poor; by whose methods where once besomed a vigorous financial instituon, the pride of the people, there stands crumbling ruin, the fall of which has aken to the foundation public confince here and all over the country. But exington possesses too much pluck and terprise to let this condition retard gress, and Phoenix Mke she will rise

11. February 26, 1895 The Mt. Sterling Advocate Mount Sterling, KY

Article from The Mt. Sterling Advocate, February 26, 1895

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THE ADVOCATE. General. The silver men made & bold dasi in the Senate and sucured right for a free coinage measure, crowding overything else aside. Indiana Democrats have sent & representative to Washington to urge the appointment of G. W. Shauklin, of Evensville, as Minister to Mexico. The will of Andrew J. Davis, of Montaua, disposing of an estate wor h $8,000.000, is to be contested again, this time on the ground that it was a fogery. The conferees of House and Senate have agreed upon all of the amendments to the Diplomatic Appropriation Bill except the item of $500,000 for a Hawaiin cable. The Bank of Lexington, at Lexington, Va., has been fored to suspend on account of the defalcation by its late chashier, C. M. Figgatt. The loss to the bank reaches $155,000. The Indiana Senate tabled a resoAution to carry out the request of Gov. Mathews for an investigation of the charges against Superintendent Johnson, of the Feeble-minded Institute. The charges will be investigated by a Senate committee, The fact has now come to light that tal the time the last bond contract was made, Treasurer Jordon had notified the Secretary of Treasury that he could not much longer continue to pay gold for legal tender-in fact, that while he might hold out three days longer, he might als reach the end of his resources within twenty-tour hours.

12. February 27, 1895 The Weekly Register Point Pleasant, WV

Article from The Weekly Register, February 27, 1895

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DIED. David Sayre, Esq., residing on Cow Run, died on Friday evening last and was buried on Sunday following. The deceased was 84 years old, and was one of the pioneers of the section of country in which he lived. He was in good circumstances, and was the owner of large tracts of land in this county. The mother and sister of Dr. L. McC. Gibbs, of this city, lost about $5,000 in the Bank of Lexington, Va, by the defalcations of Cashier C. M. Figgett, who got away with $150,000 of the Bank's money in the past twenty years, and who has gone to parts unknown. The failure of this Bank paralyzed a number of institutions, among them the Virginia Military Institute, which suffered a $20,000 loss by the cashier's stealings.

13. March 25, 1895 Alexandria Gazette Alexandria, VA

Article from Alexandria Gazette, March 25, 1895

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VIRGINIA NEWS. The Staunton News and Post have consolidated. A pension has been granted to Thomas Heflin, of Amissville, Rappahannock county. The report that Senator Daniel is ill at Atlanta, Ga., is untrue. He is at his home near Lynchburg in good health. The Virginia Conference of the United Brethren concluded its annual session at Martinsburg yesterday, and will meet next year at Braddock. It is expected that at least four hundred members of the American Society of Geography, Ethnology and Geology will visit Fredericksburg May 4. Capt. R. B. Moorman, of Roanoke, died at Stafford Springs, Miss., on Saturday. He was captain of a cavalry company in the late war and was born in Harrisonburg in 1829. William Windle, the paroled Junatic, who has been terrorizing the northern end of Shenandoah county, was cap: tured recently and returned to the asylum by Mr. Masineup, one of the officials of that institution. Judge J. K. Edmondson, trustee of the Bank of Lexington, to-day paid the depositors one-fifth of the amount of their deposits. This will practically put $40,000 into circulation in the town and county and relieve the pressing money necessity to a certain degree. An order was entered by Judge Hughes, of the United States court, in Norfolk on Saturday, authorizing the receivers of the Norfolk & Western railroad to lease and operate the Roanoke Machine Works, already practically owned by the railway company. It is stated that Judge John C. Horsley, of Nelson, will, in the near future, resign the circuit judgship of the fifth judicial circuit and will remove to Lynchburg where he will resume the practice of law. Judge Horsley has served the State in the capacity of judge for nearly nine years. Mr. Harry Murray, of Richmond. and Miss Nannie Bryan, of Stafford county, are to be married. The pros pective groom was the Adams Express agent on the train robbed near Aquia creek last October, and he became acquainted with his intended bride in making visits to her home during the trial of the train robbers. The mother of George Bahen, the injured football player, was summoned from Richmond on Saturday to her son's beside at the Emergency Hospital in Washington. Bahen has been slowly sinking ever since he was hurt in the game between the Columbia and Georgetown teams last Thanksgiving, day and the surgeons in attendance fear that he cannot live many days more. John A. Gilmore was knocked down in Chicago on Friday night and robbed by two highwaymen. He was rendered senseless by a blow from a billy and is now at a hospital. Gilmore is a young man of about thirty years of age, a native of Highland county, and for two years was a clerk in the office of the State treasurer in Richmond. He was removed by Mr. Harman on account of his dissipation. His only fault was fondness for whisky. Gilmore went west to look for work about three months*ago.

14. July 6, 1895 The Morning News Savannah, GA

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LEXINGTON'S ALLEGED LOOTERS. C. W. Irvine Now on Trial in Connection With the Failure. Lexington, Va., July 5.-The case of the commonwealth against C. W. Irvine, indicted for felony in connection with the Bank of Lexington failure, which was looted to the amount of $150,000 by C. M. Figgatt, the absconding cashier, was called to-day, Judge George Gratton of Rockinham county presiding, and a jury empanelled. The state was represented by Capt. James Bumgardner of Staunton, and Commonwealth's Attorney Robert Catlett and Hon. John W. Daniel of Lynchburg. Hon. Randolph Tucker and Frank Glasgow represented the defense. The day was consumed in examining witnesses for the state-Col. J. Edmonds, the defunct bank's receiver; Prof. W.L. Nelson, a former president of the bank, and J. W. McClung, a bookkeeper for the receiver. Several lively tilts occurred between counsel in regard to certain evidence, which was much enjoyed by the large crowd. The trial has excited widespread interest.

15. October 4, 1895 Staunton Vindicator Staunton, VA

Article from Staunton Vindicator, October 4, 1895

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PASSING NEWS OF THE DAY. Near Bridgeport Conn., a few days ago, Mrs. Mary Walters while eating a pear swallowed a hornet that had alighted on the fruit. In going down her throat the insect stung her on the tonsil. Great pain followed and the throat was soon so mnch swollen that the woman could not swallow. Later she lost power of speech. The swelling was finally reduced, but all efforts mede by Mrs. Walters to talk have proved futile and the doctors fear she will never be able to use her voice again. Judge Beverly R. Wellford of Richmond sitting as circuit judge in Lexington, has rendered a judgement against C. M. Figgat in favor of the Bank of Lexington for $160,000, and entered a decree which directed the turning over all of his property, real and personal, to J. K. Edmondson, receiver, and further directed that it should be sold and applied to the payment of his debts to the bank, which will be done as expeditiously as practicable. Sunday the annual service was held at the "Old Chapel," two miles north of Millwood, Clark Co. This chapel was built in 1790, and was the first charge of the late Bishop, Meade. The occasion was peculiarly interesting from the fact that of the three officiating clergymen two, the Rev Everard Meade and Rev. Wm. N. Meade, were grandsons of the Bishop and the third, Rev. William Lee, his godson. Rev. J. W. Lee an Evangelist, has been preaching at Drake's Branch, Charlotte Co., Va., for ten days. At the close of his services last Sunday, the congregation, who had paid J. L. Vivine the cost ot his license and liquor, poured the latter out and burned it, singing and praying all the while. Vivine had expressed his willingness to give up the saloon business. Charleston, W. Va., has had two fatal accidents. Mrs. M. M. Thompson, aged sixty, acting Librarian of the State Historical Society's room in the capitol, fell down an elevator in that building and was instantly killed. Bream Patrick, aged seventeen, son of Dr. A. S. Patrick, was killed by a fall from a step ladder at a dry goods store in which he was a clerk. Miss Madge Ould, daughter of the late Judge Robert Ould, (and half sister of the noted Miss Mattie Ould,) and Mr. William Francis Powers, a son of the Rev. Pike Powers, a well known Episcopal minister of Richmond, were married in that city last week. The ceremony took place at the home of the bride's mother and was performed by the father of the groom. John Lowry who died at Oxford,

16. October 10, 1895 Greenbrier Independent Lewisburg, WV

Article from Greenbrier Independent, October 10, 1895

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JUDGE BEVERLY R. ELLFORD, of Richmond, Va., sitting as circuit judge in Lexington, has rendered a judgment against C. M. Figgatt in favor of the Bank of Lexington for $160,000, and entered a decree which directed the turning over all of his property, real and personal, to J. K. Edmondson, receiver, and further directed that it should be sold and applied to the payment of his debts to the bank, which will be done as expeditiously as practicable.

17. December 27, 1895 Staunton Vindicator Staunton, VA

Article from Staunton Vindicator, December 27, 1895

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What Happened in 1895 RECORD OF EVENTS OF THE CLOSING YEAR. The year 1895 has not been a fortunate one for Staunton nor for the county, though from the happy crowds thronging the streets last Monday one would hardly think SO. In Staunton a severe winter crippled tradeand beforeour merchants had time to recover, the small pox separating us from the rest of world and paralyzing business set in about the first day of May. It entailed the loss of small fortunes to the treasuries of Staunton and Augusta county, and of large fortunes in the way of ruining trade and stopping the sale of farm produce. It is greatly to the credit of the financial solidity of both the city and county that in both together there were only three financial failures. Through it all, however, our enterprising city has gone on building, and our county has gone on improving its roads, building bridges and improving generally &It is worthy of remark that in the midst of the epidemic, the corner stone of the most magnifleent building which-excepting the Jefferson Hotel at Richmond-has been erected in the State, the Masonic Temple, was laid, and a little later the corner stone of the handsome Odd Fellows Temple was laid. Handsome buildings, both business and residence, have gone up all along through the year, and just as we are entering on a new year an electric street-car line is being builtAs in all years,death has been busy and the reader will be struck with the frequent recurrence of the announcement "died, and he will also be struck with the fact that some of them he had quite forgotten, showing how soon our memory passes away in the busy life of a city: JANUARY. 3rd-Maj. B. T. Bagby died. 5th-Farmers of Fishersville Farmers' Club discussed re-assessment of 1895. 11th-Heavy snow storm. 13th-Thermometer at W.L. Asylum below zero. 18th-Mrs. R. M. Burdette died. 19th-John W. Daniel addressed Stonewall Veteran Camp on Lee's birthday. 21st-Mrs. Mary Caroline Stevenson died. 31st-Eakleton Hotel sold to Staunton Perpetual Building and Loan Co. FEBRUARY. 3rd-Rev. Wm, Cumming preached on the third anniversary of his pastorate. 6th-Y. M. C. A. State Convention met. 7th-Heaviest snow storm of season began. 13th-Congregation of St. Francis Catholic church voted to build a new church edifice. 15th-Wm. B. Craig died at Mt. Meridian. Bank of Lexington failed, by which many Stauntonians lost. 17th-Rev. J. M. Hedrick, a Lutheran minsster, formerly of Churchville, died at Charlottesville. 18th-Grand Lodge Knights of Pythias met. 23rd-Mrs. Catherine King, teacher of infant class at Methodist Sunday School died. Meeting at Churchville favoring constitutional convention. 25th-P. B. Graves, foreman of tailoring department of D. D. & B. Institution died. 28th-Mrs. 1. Hite Bird died. MARCH. 1st-Mrs. Annie E. Boon, wife of G. G. Boondied. 9th-Meeting Churchville in favor of reduction in State expenses. 10th-Mrs. Jane Peer, died at Jenning's Gap. Rev. Dr. J. S. Gardner preached his last sermon at the Methodist church, being assigned to Legington. 12th-The Rosenberger block at Waynesboro burned. 13th-H. B. Michie, formerly of Staunton, died in Charlottesville. 16th-Fishersville Farmer's Club met to discuss reduction of county expenses 25th-Rev. Dr. G. W. Finley lectured before Stonewall Veteran Camp on bat tle of Gettysburg. 26th-Grand Council Royal Arcanum met at Oneida Hall. 30th-Win. Caldwell Veteran of the RichHowitzers died a Waynesboro. APRIL 6th-Heavy rainfail. 9th-Col. Asher W. Harman died in Richmond. 12th-Ex-Gov. Cameron arrived in Staunton. MAY. 1st-Merchants of Staunton commenced early closing hours. 6th-Existence of small-pox officially announced by Board of Health. 7th-Special committee of City Council recomend a reduction of Salaries. David E. Strasburg who died in Baltimore, buried here. John Morgan, col., sentenced to twelve years in penitentiary for attempted rape. 9th-Peter Good, war member of Staunton Artillery, died in Shenandoah. 11th-Thermometer stood at 45° with Northwest blizzard. W. B. Davenport appointed delegate to congress of colored men at Atlanta Exposition. 13th-Miss Elizabeth U. Yates of Maine lectured at Opera House on Woman's suffrage. 18th-Mrs. Phoebe Willgoss died in her 82d year. 21st-Market house ordinance sustained by Circuit Court. 28th-Close of annual exercises at Augusta Female Seminary. 31st-Annual final exercises of Wesleyan Female Institute ended. JUNE. 2nd-West Virginia State Board of Health abolished quarantine against Staunton. Mrs. Margaret Harman, widow of Gen. W. H. Harman died. 3rd-Dr. C. H. Getzendanner. died.

18. March 15, 1896 The Times Richmond, VA

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# JUDGE EDMONDSON nel, and finally to colonel of the Twenty-seventh Virginia Regiment, "Stonewall" Brigade, a command known for its efficiency and daring bravery, not only in the old Lexington Gazette was a power in Virginia and other States in shaping the political opinions of the people, he was one of the owners and editors of that influential journal, and his pen had its influence in the battles of the political giants then being fought. At the outbreak of the civil war, he left Lexington as lieutenant of the "Rockbridge Rifles," a company that won distinction on many a hard-fought field against overwhelming odds. This company was composed largely of the pick of the men of town and county, and was the first company to leave Lexington the North, where it was feared, and in the South, where it was worshipped and idolized for its many victories over the enemy, but its fame, along with that of the illustrious "Stonewall" Jackson, from whom it took its name, was not unknown to the military men of other nations. At the battle of Chancellorsville, in the lead of his command, he was shot down, dangerously wounded, and by that wound lost an arm. At the conclusion of that memorable conflict he returned to the home of his fathers, conquered by overwhelming odds, but nevertheless having done his full duty to the cause of liberty he so well loved, and as the "Lost Cause" that he had so valiantly followed from First Manassas to Appomattox went down in a cloud, he then and there began the work of rebuilding and repairing the fortunes of the country left desolate by the ravages of cruel war. After that conflict he was elected to the position of clerk of the County Court of Rockbridge, a position he filled with ability for a number of years. He afterwards filled the position of secretary and treasurer of Washington College. During the period, after the war, while General Robert E. Lee was the president of Washington College, he took up the study of law in the law school of that institution, and completed the course and entered upon the practice of his profession, and to-day enjoys a large and lucrative practice, and is known to the Virginia bar as one of its most able members-a man of great learning in the law, whose opinions carry with them much weight. He has filled the position of trustee to Washington College, and to-day is one of the trustees of Washington and Lee University. For nine years he occupied the bench of the County Court of Rockbridge as its judge, and in that important trust he administered justice with an ability and impartiality that reflected credit on himself and the ermine he so ably and spotlessly wore. He has been a director in the Western Lunatic Asylum, at Staunton, and other like positions appointive by the Governor; is now a commissioner in chancery and the general receiver of the courts of Rockbridge, in which position the people of Rockbridge are particularly fortunate in securing his services. He was a member of the Legislature, session of 1893-'94, and there displayed statesmanship of ante-bellum-day calibre, and on his return home, having been influential in the passage of the bill that gave to the Virginia Military Institute an appropriation for the erection of the "Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hall" on the parade grounds, he was tendered an ovation by the corps of cadets of that institution, who called on him in a body, headed by the military post band. He is a friend of education, and whenever he can be induced to accept a public trust he will execute the duties of that trust with a rigorous honesty and in the best interests of the Commonwealth. His appointment as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Deaf, Dumb, and Blind Asylum, at Staunton, means honest administration of the affairs of that public institution. When the Rockbridge Company was organized to develop Glasgow, of which General Fitzhugh Lee was president, he accepted the position of treasurer, and was also the president of the Bank of Glasgow. He is now president of the Bank of Rockbridge, one of the best banks in the Valley. He took an active part in the organization of Lee-Jackson Camp, Confederate Veterans, No. 22, of this place, and is an active member of that body. When the Bank of Lexington was looted by Figgat, the cashier, and left an apparent wreck, he took hold of its affairs as assignee by appointment of the court, and in that position he has brought order and income out of what most everyone thought to be a complete wreck, and is to-day paying to the depositors 60 per cent. on their deposits, and it is probable there are other dividends to follow, and right here it is proper to remark that his business capacity and great executive ability showed itself in this particular work to the greatest satisfaction of those interested. He was an active and influential members of committees that secured the fund for the erection of the Valentine recumbent figure of General Lee in the mausoleum of Washington and Lee University and the statue of Stonewall Jackson in Lexington Cemetery. In the political councils of the Democratic party of his State and county he takes an active part, and has been a member of the State Committee and chairman of his County Committee. Judge Edmondson is a Christian gentleman, Presbyterian by faith, and an active and influential man in the councils of his church; an active member of the bar, a man of literary tastes, public spirited and charitable. His wife is one of the most amiable ladies. There are no children. They live in comfort in the fashionable quarter of the town. The Judge, by his unceasing labor and strict honesty, has accumulated a nice income, and enjoys the entire confidence of his people. Governor O'Ferrall has shown his wisdom in the selection of the Judge for this new public trust.