Commercial National Bank (Chicago, IL)

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Episode Information

Episode UID
71300862
Episode Type
Run Only
Bank Type
national
Bank ID
7130 national
Charter Number
713
Start Date
October 17, 1871
Location
Chicago, Illinois (41.850, -87.650)

Metadata

Model
gemini-3-flash-preview (chosen from majority vote of a three-model LLM ensemble)
Short Digest
4b066ad0fbcd1f03

Response Measures

Accommodated withdrawals, Partial suspension

Other: The bank was part of a group of Chicago banks that collectively resolved to enforce 30/60 day notice clauses and limit currency payments to small sums (under $100) to manage the panic.

Clearinghouse involved: Yes (loan, examination, or other measures)

Description

During the Panic of 1873, while many Chicago banks suspended or invoked notice rules, the Commercial National Bank was specifically cited as having continued to pay currency on demand throughout the crisis.

Events (4)
1. January 13, 1865 Chartered
Source
historical_nic
2. October 17, 1871 Other
Newspaper Excerpt
The banks pay 15 per cent. at once, and will resume regular business on the 17th inst. ... The decision of the banks to abandon their fifteen per cent. installment policy, and resume business as usual to-morrow, has restored confidence in Chicago. (Oct 16/17 1871 reports regarding the Great Chicago Fire).
Source
newspapers
3. September 22, 1873 Run
Cause
Macro News
Cause Details
Systemic financial panic originating in New York (Panic of 1873) spreading to Chicago.
Measures
The bank continued to pay currency on demand throughout the panic, unlike many competitors.
Newspaper Excerpt
There was a considerable run upon some of the banks here today, but they are adhering to the resolution adopted yesterday to fall back upon thirty and sixty days notice
Source
newspapers
4. July 30, 1910 Voluntary Liquidation
Source
historical_nic

Newspaper Articles (25)
1. October 16, 1871 The Daily State Journal Richmond, Alexandria, VA
Article from The Daily State Journal, October 16, 1871

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ACCIDENT TO STEAMERS A FLOOD IN CHINA A TERRIBLE TYPHOON &c. &c. &c. &c. From Chicago. A FURIOUS GALE-THE BANKS RESUMING BUSINESS, &C. Chicago, October 16.-A urious gale prevailed here Saturday night, blowing firebrands in all directions and prostrating walls. Fortunately, however, the rain, which had previously fallen, prevented any damage from fire. The supply of food now on hand is ample. The banks pay 15 per cent. at once, and will resume regular business on the 17th inst. R. H. Hurlbert, comptroller of currency, certifies to the solvency of the Chicago National bank. The Fires in the Northwest. PREVIOUS REPORTS CONFIRMED-FEARFUL LOSS OF LIFE, &C. Chicago, October 16.--Advices from the Northwest, in relation to the fircs prevailing here, grow hourly worse. Milwaukie, October 16.-Later accounts corfirm previous disastrous reports. The loss of life in the neighborhood of Pishtego will reach 1,200. Fifteen per cent of the injured will die. The only escape was the water, where maddened cattle and horses drowned many. The population of Pishtego was two thousand; a third of whom perished. New York Items. New York, Oct. 13.-The Manhattan Insurance Company has resolved to suspend. It's losses are stated to be a million and a quarter dollars. The company possesses a large surplus besides capital. It is not expected that the assured will sustain any loss. The President of the Empire City Company, which was reported yesterday to have lost a quarter of a million of dollars, states that it has sustained no loss. It is reported that the Western Union Telegraph has effected a loan in Europe and will cancell four million dollars worth of stock. Douglas, of Sappho, has challenged Samuels, of Dreadnaught, to race 25 miles windward and back in a 10 knot breeze. Bennett's Dauntless offers Dreadnought a similar match. Dispatches from Vienna, Paris, Brussels, Berlin and London represent that active subscriptions are going on to aid Chicago. The Council of Political Reform last evening elected Wm. M. Evarts president, and Eugene Kelly, Wm. H. Aspinwall, James W. Beekman and Oscar Zollicoffer, vice presidents. Destructive Whirlwind. Porlland, Me., Oct. 15.-A dispatch from Halifax says that the heaviest hurricane known for the last twenty years occurred there last evening. The tide rose two feet over the wharves. Many vessels were injured and several lost. The Fever in Charleston. Charleston, Oct, 15.-One fever death reported yesterday and one to-day.

2. October 18, 1871 The Daily Dispatch Richmond, VA
Article from The Daily Dispatch, October 18, 1871

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LATEST FROM WASHINGTON. JUDGE CHASE-ANOTHER PAYMASTER IN TROUBLE, &C. ASHINGTON, October 7.-Judge Chase is presiding at the Supreme Court, which commenced a special term yesterday. General Bullock, paymaster of the Freedmen's Bureau, has been suspended for irregularities. His arrest had been ordered, but it is withheld for explanations. Rumors of a defalcation are rife, and a run is progressing on the Freedman's Bank in consequence. The Attorney-General has a dispatch from North Mississippi that five kuklux, with disguises complete, have been captured. Seven hundred and filty thousand dollars in revenue stamps were found safe in the Government vault at Chicago. Secretary Boutwell has received the following dispatch from Chicago: "The Chicago banks are saved and are paying every dollar on demand. A good feeling prevails." [Signed] H. R. Hurlbut, comptroller of currency." THE WEIT OF HABEAS CORPUS SUSPENDED IN SOUTH CAROLINA. ASHINGTON, October 17.-The President to day, after reciting the causes, and quoting the laws under which he acts, issued a proclamation in which he suspends the writ of habeas corpus in Spartansburg, York, Marion, Chester, Laurens, Newberry, Fairfield, Lancaster, and Chesterfield counties, of South Carolina. The suspension extends to the arrest by the United States marshal, his deputies, any military officer of the United States, or any soldier or citizen acting under the order of said marshal, deputy, or such military officer within said counties, of persons charged with any violation of the kuklux act of Congress during the continuance of the "rebellion" in said counties. WEATHER PROBABILITIES. WASHINGTON, October 17. - -Rising barometer, with clear and pleasant weather, is probable for Wednesday from the lower lakes to Texas and northwestward. Cloudy and clearing weather in New England and on the South Atlantic coast. Fresh northerly winds on the gulf coast. Light winds on the Atlantic, and fresh westerly wind on the lakes.

3. October 19, 1871 The Tipton Advertiser Tipton, IA
Article from The Tipton Advertiser, October 19, 1871

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# THE CHICAGO FIRE considered a sufficiently large figure to cover all the losses. The number of acres actually burned over is about 2,500-comprising the most compact and thickly inhabited part of the city, and the great bulk of its business and substance. About 20,000 buildings were burned, one-fourth of which were of stone or brick. The actual loss of life was undoubtedly over 300. Concerning the situation and prospects, on Friday, the Journal said: "Chicago is not hopelessly down. Her capitalists and merchants are 'up and doing'-preparing for reorganization and reconstruction upon the old foundations -and it is very apparent to all intelligent observers, that all will soon be well, and that Chicago will, before long, be in rapid process of rebuilding, and that before many years she will in all respects be herself again. The fact, now positively stated, that the heaviest insurance companies at the East will promptly adjust and pay in full their losses by our Great Conflagration, is the most cheering news we have yet received since the Calamity. This will go far towards helping many of our people out of their troubles and setting them on their feet again." On Monday, it speaks yet more cheerfully, speaking of the announcement that the banks would resume business on the 17th, which is strengthened by a certificate from the United States Comptroller of Currency that the National banks of Chicago are solvent institutions, as follows: "The decision of the banks to abandon their fifteen per cent. installment policy, and resume business as usual to-morrow, has restored confidence in Chicago. The universal opinion now is that the grain business will soon be running as usual. At present the derangement in insurance is a hindrance to shipments. There is no speculative business attempted. It is believed that the permanent increase in the price of grain will be slight. We hear of scores of cases where merchants or capitalists are already fully determined to rebuild in the most substantial style on the old sites, and it is already very evident that the South Side will before many months be 'reconstructed' even more substantially than is was built originally." The peace of the city has been restored and is maintained. The papers deprecate the statements which are finding place in newspapers signifying a different state of things, and say that General Sheridan and the city authorities report no cases of outrage or serious disturbance.

4. September 16, 1873 Chicago Daily Tribune Chicago, IL
Article from Chicago Daily Tribune, September 16, 1873

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MONETARY. MONDAY EVENING, Sept. 15. Local finances word n little more quiet to-day than during last week. The country orders for burrency were considerably lighter, but the supply of currency in this markot in BO extremely scanty that the banks find it very difficult to moot oven the diminished domanda of their country customors. No considerable amounts of currency coino back from the country yet, and though the Chicago banks keep bringing currenby hore from Now York, all thoy get la in $100, 0500, and $1,000 bills, which are of but little uso In the country. Money is evidently becoming scarcer in this market AB the grain accumulates horo. It le estimated that the aggregate deposits of the Chicago banks havo fallen off between $2,000,000 and $3,000,000 in the last ten days. Now York exchange was much depressed again 10-day, owing to the pressure for currency, and was freely offored at $1.25 por $1,000 discount, with no buyers at that. EMBABRABSMENTS OF THE CANADA SOUTHERN. It is surmised in some quarters that the financial difficultion of the Canada Southorn Railroad, which were the cause of the susponsion of Kenyon, Cox & Co., of Now York, will intorforo with the construction of the Chicago oxtonlon of the road called the Chicago & Canada Bouthern." boing the line from Amherstburg, Canada (Detroit Rivor) to Chicago, in which case the main line and branches of the Canada Southorn already completed would have to dopend on the Michigan Southern and Tolodo, Wabash & Wostern for any connection with the great grain region of the West, instead of connecting at Chicago with the Rook Island and the Northwestern, as was intended by the projectors of the Canada Southern. It is oven not impossiblo that the confliot of intercete between the Michigan Southern and the Tolodo & Wabash on the one hand, and of the Rock Island and the Northwestern on the other, may have exercised wome influence to bring about the present financial difficulties. By Oct. 1 it is expected that the Canada Sonthorn will be operating 405 milos of road, viz. : The main lino and St. Thomas Branch in Canada, 292 miles; the Toledo, Canada Southorn & Detroit, which makes the connection with the Michigan Southorn, and also with the Tolodo, Wabash & Westorn, the Dayton & Michigan, the Pennsylvania Railroad branch leading to Pittsburgh, as well as with roads centering at Detroit, 58 miles; the Erie & Niagara, 31 miles: and the Michigan Midland and Canada, 14 miles. The Chicago & Canada Southern is finished 70 milos of the distance from opposite Amboratburg (Dotroit Rivor) toward this city. The noncompletion of this latter road would leave the main lino, Canada Southorn, with us principal Western connections at Tolodo instead of Chlcago. The opening of the Canada Southorn was delayed for some time by the non-completion of the International Bridgo over the Niagara River, a work over which tho Canada Southern had no control. In the menutime, arrangements have been made for the use of the Suspension Bridge, 15 miles bolow the International, and reached by the Erio & Niagara Railway, which is owned by the Canada Southorn. This routo has been, and will bo, used for freight business, but no through passenger trains will be put on until tho International Bridge is done. THE GAUGE OF THE GRAND TRUNK Railway will be changed to 4 foot 81/4 inches botween Toronto and Montreal, on Saturday, 4th of October next. IMPORTS AT NEW YORK AND BOSTON continuo light compared to previous years. At New York the imports for the wook ending Sept. 12 were: For the week. 1871. 1872. 1873, Entered at port $ 3,467,827 $ 3,492,058 $ 2,503,718 Thrown on market. 3,670,665 3,814,767 2,853,374 Since Jan. 1. 1871. 1873. 1873. Entered At port $101,134,535 $110,425,322 $90,487,529 Thrownon market. 99,070,410 104,345,101 92,910,729 At Boston, for the week ending Sept. 5, they were: 1873, 1872. $ 1,617,897 For the week ending Sept. 5 $ 1,288,197 Previously reported 43,867,776 50,456,133 845 156 079 Total

5. September 22, 1873 Memphis Daily Appeal Memphis, Hernando, Grenada, Jackson, Vicksburg, Atlanta, Griffin, Macon, Montgomery, Selma, TN
Article from Memphis Daily Appeal, September 22, 1873

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NEWS OF THE DAY. The Wisconsin State fair begins at Milwaukee to-day. The Texas editorial excursionists left Cincinnati last night for Louisville. The financial panic is reported to have seriously affected the narrow-gauge interests in Utah. The Chicago banks have taken advantage of the sixty-day privilege on their depositors. McClure's military academy, at Oakland, California, was entirely destroyed by fire Saturday night. Immediately after the cortes adjourns the Spanish government at Madrid will declare Spain in a state of seige. Thomas Tarwater, a brakeman, was run over and killed by a freight-train at Columbia, Tennessee, on the nineteenth instant. Pat Garnley, an insane man, set fire to a building in Jeffersonville, Indiana, yesterday, remained in it and was burned to death. Business generally will be suspended in Cincinnati to-day. it being proclaimed by the mayor. a holiday in the interest of the exposition. A strange and fatal disease at Kelter, in Utah, is very prevalent, producing great consternation. The patients die in a few hours. It resembles fever. Satisfactory arrangements have bee n perfected with the Ute and other tribes of Indians, hitherto in discontent, so that they will be settled upon their reservations. A Milwaukee dispatch says the financial panic of New York produces no disturbance there as yet, but the banks are preparing for any emergency that may occur the coming week. At Carbondale, Illinois, yesterday two negroes, Bill Smith and Frank Collins, remembered the Sabbath by playing cards, "fell out," resulting in the latter shooting the former through the heart. He's dead.

6. September 23, 1873 The Daily Dispatch Richmond, VA
Article from The Daily Dispatch, September 23, 1873

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senior partner, has disappeared, causing great anxiety to his famile and friends. Search has been made in fall directions. CHICAGO. CHICAGO, September 20.-The Franklin Bank, a private banking institution, closed its doors to-day, being unable to settle at the clearing-house. The amount short was only $9,000. The vice-president of the concern says the embarros-ment is only temporary. CHICAGO, September - There is considerable of a run upon some of the banks here to-day, but they are adhering to the resolution adopted yesterday to fall back on the thirty and sixty-day rule, and are only paying sums of less than 8100. The latest reports, public and private, from New York appear to have had the effect to lessen the anxiety. BALTIMORE. BALTIMORE, September 21.-While the excitement in the New York market is watched with interest, and the brokers' offices have been visited by crowds to observe the sway and wreck of stock prices, everything has gone on calmly, and business is done at our banks in the usual way. Money continues at 10 to 12 per cent. for best paper on the street, though negotiations are limited, and are for strictly business en. gagements. IOWA. BURLINGTON, IOWA, September 20.-The Orchard City Savings Bank suspended at 12:20. PITTSBURGH. PITTSBURGH, PA., September James T. Brady & Co., bankers, and the Security Trust Company. of this city, suspended today. THE FEELING IN ENGLAND. The London Times says: " In view of the extraordinary prosperity of the United States and the high price of Government bonds the present must be regarded as a simple effort of the financial system to get rid of its dishonest element." The Daily Telegraph says stick local trouble as suspensions in New York seems to be merely the rank outgrowth of exuberant prosperity, ond accessories to progress which does not for a moment halt. LONDON, September 22.-5 P. M.-Much anxiety is manifested on all sides to hear further news from New York. Jay Cooke and McCultoch & Co. continue to pay cash in the usual manner over their counter. Among the rumors current in the Stock Exchange is one that the Bank of England holds $300,000 of Jay Cooke & Co.'s acceptances, and that the Roth-childs have $1,000,000 of. the same paper. LONDON, September 22.-4:30 P.M.10-40's are quoted at 904; new 58,911; Eries, 45. 5:30 P. M.-A dispatch announcing the closing of the New York Gold Exchange has just been bulletined. The news is accepted as an indiction of the gravity of the financial situation. and the market for American securities is again depressed.

7. September 23, 1873 The New York Herald New York, NY
Article from The New York Herald, September 23, 1873

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Run on the Chicago Banks. CHICAGO, Sept. 22, 1873. There is considerable of a run upon some of the banks here to-day, but they are adhering to the resolution adopted yesterday to fall back upon the thirty and sixty day rule, and are only paying on sums of less than $100. The largest assemblage appears to be gathered at the States Savings Institution, but so far the crowd has been very quiet and orderly. The latest reports, public and private, from New York, appear to have had the effect to lessen the anxiety which was manifested this morning among many bankers and business men.

8. September 24, 1873 Knoxville Weekly Chronicle Knoxville, TN
Article from Knoxville Weekly Chronicle, September 24, 1873

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Georgia, to Hopkins, Dwight & Trowbridge; Deposit Savings Institution, Mobile, to Metropolitan National Bank The Brooklyn Banks. The Brooklyu bank presidents to resolved te sell $1,000,000 of U. S. securities in case of emergency. The majority were, however, of the opinion that there would be no run upon them. The Evening Post says: The day closed with an established improvement in general feeling; one day more with the Stock Exchange closed, will, it is thought, put everybody in such a condition, SO far as the exercise of reason is concerned, that it will be prudent for the brokers to again resume business. This afternoon money lent on the streets at : per cent., that rate having been paid by distressed brokers. President Rail, of the Bank of Commerce, said this afternoon that confidence had been very greatly improved and he Thought the action of the Government in buying 5-20s had been highly beneficial in loosening greenbacks. NEW York, Sept. 22.-When the doors of the Irving Savings Bank, 96 Warren street, were opened this morning, a crowd of depositors rushed in, clamoring for their money. The paying teller immediately set to work to satisfy their demands. When the majority, however, saw how willingly money was being paid out, they became quieted and left. Up to 2 o' clock the bank had paid out above $10,000, and had received a considerale amount in deposits. Feeling of Relief in New York. NEW YORK, Sept. 20.-The feeling among all classes is one of great relief. No runs on any of the national or state banks and the crowds on Wall street are mainly curious spectators. There are considerable inquirry for stocks on Wall street. Investors with greenbacks in hand are seeking to purchase, but the prohibition of Stock Ex: change drohibits transactions. The Chicago Banks. CHICAGO, Sept. 22.-There was a considerable run upon some of the banks here today, but they areadhering to the resolution adopted yesterday to fall back upon thirty and sixty days notice, and only paying sums of less than one hundred dollars. The largest assemblage appears to be gathered at the Statee Savings Institution, but so far the crowd has been very quiet and orderly. The latest reports, public and private from New York appear to have had the effect to lessen the anxiety. Chicago Savings Bank. CHICAGO, Sept. 22.-The Savings Banks give notice of the enforcement of thesixty days' notice. MEMPHIS, Sept. 22.-There were eight cases of yellow fever on Sunday. Philadelphia Banks. PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 22.-The run on the Savings] Banks has subsided. PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 2.-There is a much better feeling on the street to-day. The Stock Board is firmer. Pennsylvanias are holding ground at 40 to 50. A bank statement wili be out as usual to-day and will show a gratifying exhibit. The Situation in London. LONDON, Sept. 22-5 P. M.-Much excitement is manifested on all sides to hear further news from New York. Jay Cooke, McCulloch & Co. continue to pay cash in the usual manner over their counter. Among the rumors current in Stock Exchange is one that the Bank of England holds $400,000 of Jay Cooke Co.'s acceptances and that Rothschilds have $100,000 of the same paper. LONDON, Sept. 22-6:30 P. M. - dispatch announcing the closing of the New York Gold Exchanged has just been bulletined. This news is aceepted as an indication of the gravity of the financial situation and the market for American securities is again depressed.

9. September 25, 1873 The Rock Island Daily Argus Rock Island, IL
Article from The Rock Island Daily Argus, September 25, 1873

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# Banks In Chicago all Suspended. Telegrams received here this afternoon, announce that all the Chicago banks have suspended. This is probably by a united agreement to suspend until some plan of action can be agreed on. Things look blue, and there is great probability that the panic will become general and extend all over the country.

10. September 27, 1873 The Richmond Palladium Richmond, IN
Article from The Richmond Palladium, September 27, 1873

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The Bank Seven banks in Chicago pended Thursday, says private formation exit Woollen, Webb & Co., at polis, have suspended temporarily They say: of "Owing to the continued demand for payment of our deposite and in view of the fact that i the Chicago banks have enspended to-day, we are compelled to close our doors. As moon as a complete statement of our condition can be prepared, it will be submitted for the considers tion of our sd The balance of the banks of In: dianapolis stand firm. aferonia Our banks in Richmond are solid as the rock of Gabralterprudent and careful managers 81 steering them. addens

11. September 27, 1873 The Portland Daily Press Portland, ME
Article from The Portland Daily Press, September 27, 1873

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Action of Banks Approved. CHICAGO, Sept. 26.-Despatch-s from the best informed sources received at the office of associated press in this city, from most of the principal cities in Illinois and Iowa, in reference to the present financial troubles in the east, concur in saying that the action of the Chicago banks in following the course of the New York banks in suspending payments of large sums of currency is almost universally sustained and commented by bankers and business men, as wise and timely, and calculated to arrest the panic and find tbe way to relief them from the present difficulties.

12. September 27, 1873 Chicago Daily Tribune Chicago, IL
Article from Chicago Daily Tribune, September 27, 1873

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MILWAUKEE. Special Dispatch to The Chicago Tribune. MILWAUKER, Bopt. 26,-The suspension of the Ohicago and St. Louis banks has had very little effect here. Our banks have been strengthened by the receipts of currency from Now York during the past two days, and are prepared to respond promptly to all domands made upon them by depositors, but the latter exhibit no apparent uneastricas, and business continuce good in all departments, breadetuffa and produce excepted. The general merchandise markets are aotive, and prices show uo material variation sinco the panic,

13. September 30, 1873 Chicago Daily Tribune Chicago, IL
Article from Chicago Daily Tribune, September 30, 1873

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LAWRENCE, KS. Special Dispatch to The Chicago Tribune. LAWRENCE, Ks., Sept. 20.-Financial matters are looking brighter. The news of resumption by the Chicago banks is hailed with delight. Our banks have paid without suspension through the panic.

14. September 30, 1873 Chicago Daily Tribune Chicago, IL
Article from Chicago Daily Tribune, September 30, 1873

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SAN FRANCISCO. Special Dispatch to The Chicago Tribune. SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 20.-To-day was devoted almost exclusively to collections and legitimate channels, and the result inspirod confidence. Tho resumption of business by the Chicago banks was the subject of much congratulation, showing the panic had no serious effects on Western finance and stability. This, with the promptness with which to-day's matured obliga- tions were mot, has reopened the current of exchange, which resumed with some briskness. Coin drafts on New York sold at ΒΎ to 1 por cent; telegraphic transfers at 2 por cent. The panic has fully demonstrated the unadvisability of stock speculations. Capitalists are more unwilling than ever to invest in outside real estate, preferring legitimate enter- prises and staple products. The panic is charged

15. October 2, 1873 The Saline County Journal Salina, KS
Article from The Saline County Journal, October 2, 1873

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There was a bett er state of feeling financially yesterday than there has been since the commencement of the panic. The reports that the Chicago and St. Louis banks would resume this morning was interpreted as a cheering indication that the worst was over. This is probably the case. Indeed, there are evidences on all sides that reason is resuming its sway. Currency is flowing in a steady stream to the West, and mon. ey will soon be abundant.-Lawrence Journal, Sept. 30th.

16. October 2, 1873 The Leavenworth Weekly Times Leavenworth, KS
Article from The Leavenworth Weekly Times, October 2, 1873

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AN OPEN QUESTION. Speaking of the determination of the At chison banks, to pay out currency on de mand of depositors, and comparing that course with the course adopted by the Leavnworth banks, the Champion finds cause for much local gratification. At first glance one may think that suspension for a few days, or even the payment of checks for a limited amount, is an acknowledgement of weaknessupon the part of banks adopting the policy, but a deliberate second thought will convince one that the measure is now calculated to promote the business interests of a city. In Chicago, the adoption of that course was strongly advised by the immediate representative in that city of the currency bureau of the Treasury Department, and fully approved and endorsed by gentiemen best quelified to form an intelligent judgment as to its consequences. In St. Louis, the solid old bankers accepted the course to protect the mercantile interests of their city. It is a fact worth considering that dispatches were received by Leavenworth merchants from their Eastern creditors, offering five per cent. discount and payment of charges, wherever remittances were made in currency by express. The immediate result of such transactions would be a drain of currency from the west. The euspension in Leavenworth, qualified as it is, will be only temporary. Early next week the banks expect to resume regular business transactions. There is no panic here. No alarm is felt. Depositors feel perfectly secure. No one questions the ability of our banks to pay every dollar due depositors. Currency is coming here inclood of having, and in the end the window description

17. October 2, 1873 Ottumwa Weekly Courier Ottumwa, IA
Article from Ottumwa Weekly Courier, October 2, 1873

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On Monday evening last the following action was had by Chicago bankers : The Chicago Clearing House association of banks and bankers resolve that until further action, and in view of the disturbed condition of affairs in New York and other cities, and the difficulty of converting balances into currency, its members be recommended and authorized to suspend currency payments on any large demands made upon them, either from country banks or over their counters. Dispatches of last night show that this action of the Chicago bankers is commended in Keokuk and Des Moines, Iowa,"also by those of Quincy and Peoria, III. The excitement throughout the whole country is great, and yet everybody expresses the utmost confidence in the banks, except such as have been dealing in railroad stock. The opinion prevails that banks generally must suspend until the people settle quietly down. Our produce which had commenced moving, is about totally checked. Eastern banks refuse to send currency west, and as a consequence no produce can be bought. This certainly cannot last long, for the starving must have bread and the currency depot must be unlocked in the East.

18. October 3, 1873 Burlington Weekly Free Press Burlington, VT
Article from Burlington Weekly Free Press, October 3, 1873

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SUSPENSION OF THE CHICAGO BANKS. - A A telegram received Saturday from Chicago announces that all the banks in that city have suspended.

19. October 3, 1873 Burlington Weekly Free Press Burlington, VT
Article from Burlington Weekly Free Press, October 3, 1873

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The Action of the Banks. The New York banks, in order to prevent further drain of greenbacks, and new lock-ups of currency, already in too scanty supply, found it necessary to refuse payments of large checks and drafts, while still holding themselves prepared to cash small checks, drawn in the ordinary course of business. Similar action at once became necessary in other monetary centres. Thus the Boston banks found that New Yorkers were picking up Boston checks, and that large sums of greenbacks, were being sent from Boston to New York. They at once held a meeting for concerted action and adopted the same measure of partial saspension. The same causes led to the same precautionary measure] on the part of the banks in Philadelphia, Baltimore, Chicago, Cineinnati, Indianapolis, and other large cities. Probably a majority of the banks of the principal cities of the Union have by this time followed the example of New York. The country banks are not in equal danger of drains of currency, and probably do not in many cases find it necessary to give formalinotice of similar precautions. Yet their attitude, in the nature of things, must be substantially the same. While all goes on quietly and on the usual course of business, they will make no difference in their mode of doing business; but they would unquestionably meet any concerted or unusual demand for currency, by a refusal to pay greenbacks and a tender of some other form of payment, as certified checks, or drafts. Our Burlington banks are sound and strong ; and as long as our business men and community generally keep their heads, and make no unnecessary or unusual demands. they will unquestionably keep right on in the ever. tenor of their way, responding as usual to all ordinary demands. While the banks tbus do their duty, it is for the community to remember that a duty also rests with them. No one should hoard greenbacks, or needlessly withdraw them from circulation. Let every one that has cash use what he needs, and thus keep it moving; and deposit what he does not need in the banks, to help keep up their supply of currency. With such wise action, there need not be, and we suppose there will not be, any disturbance of the usual course of business among us.

20. October 9, 1873 Iowa Voter Knoxville, IA
Article from Iowa Voter, October 9, 1873

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The West. The Chicago Journal of the 25th says that it had become necessary to say that the banks of Chicago had not suspended payment or closed their places of business. The action of the preceding night was not in consequence of a panic but to prevent a panic. They had not ceased business, were continuing to receive deposits and pay out such sums as might be needed for ordinary business transactions, but where sums were demanded to board or withdraw from business operations they had resolved to delay the payment of these until the financial storm had passed. The currency stringency in that city had had the effect to bring the extensive hog and cattle trade to a stand still, it being impossible to make cash sales. The Union Live Stock Yards contained 30,000 hogs and 10,000 head of cattle, all that the yards could possibly accommodate, and the live stock commission merchants had notified the railroads and country shippers that no more live stock would be received until further notice. The Cincinnati Clearing-House Association adopted on the 25th a resolution substantially the same as that adopted on the 24th by the banks of Chicago. A dispatch from Kansas City, Mo., of the 25th, says that the banks of that city had suspended. A dispatch from St. Louis, of the 25th, says that the banks of that city had held a meeting on the evening of that day and resolved to adopt the plan of issuing Clearing-House certificates. A Detroit dispatch of the 25th announces that the schooner W. J. Whaling had been beached at Grand Haven, Michigan, on the forenoon of that day. Vessel and cargo were a total loss. Two of the crew were drowned. The Inter-State Industrial Exposition was formally opened at Chicago on the evening of the 25th. The huge structure was thoroughly packed. It was estimated that fully 20,000 persons were in. Dedicatory speeches were made by U.S. Senator Logan, ex-Governor Oglesby and others. The 26th was Chicago's "Black Friday." The Union National, the Second National, the Manufacturers' National, Cook County National, and the National Bank of Commerce, all closed their doors on the morning of that day. The Board of Trade of that city had adopted a resolution prohibiting dealing in grain options for the present, on the ground that such dealing had a tendency to depress prices. In view of the present monetary situation and the difficulty of drawing city deposits, the Board of Public Works had decided to temporarily suspend work on all sewer improvements not actually commenced. A meeting of the associated banks had been held in the afternoon to discuss the question of issuing loan certificates, but no conclusion had been reached. A dispatch from San Francisco of the 26th says the Independent State Convention had nominated E. W. McKenstry for Justice of the Supreme Court. The Convention adopted resolutions that the opponents of organized corruption form themselves into a political

21. October 14, 1873 Chicago Daily Tribune Chicago, IL
Article from Chicago Daily Tribune, October 14, 1873

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ovor proceding days. While thero was gront con- fidence in the solvency of our banks, thoro was much intorost folt to see what developments would be made during the carlior hours of the oponing-day. At the usual hour this morning overy bank and banker in the Olearing-Houso Association, twonty-ono in number, commenced full and unequivocal resumption. # THERE WAS NO Ξ•Ξ§ΞŸΞ™Ξ€Ξ•MENT, thero was nothing about the appearance of the bank that indicated a run; the business of the day commenced and continued to the close with a degroo of quiet that was remarkable. So far as is known, there was not an anxions depositor presented himself at the banks. The amount drawn by depositora was probably less than usual on Monday. Cortainly it did not ex- coed the usual demands of the average busi- noss day of the week. While this was true, the deposits of currency were liboral and boyond the expectation of the banks. Tho largost number of the bankers report that they recoived more currency than they paid out. Ono of the National Banks received in currency $100,- 000 more than they were called on to pay. The entisfactory results of the forenoon put # A NEW FACE ON THE MEROHANTS who assembled on 'Change. The attendance was larger than it had been for days, and overy per- son seemed to be encouraged. The gen- eral markots woro improved in tone, and the impression prevailed that we had en- torod fully upon the work of recuperation, and that restoration would proceed with rapidity. At the close of banking bours all acknowlodged that the success of the first day of curronoy ro- sumption had been comploto. # THE LOAN-CERTIFICATES. Of $462,000 in Clearing-House certificates, $165,000 wero canceled to-day, leaving less than $300,000 of cortificates unredeemed. Of the lattor amount, under the ac- tion of the Clearing-House, 25 por cont will be redeemed to-morrow. and 25 per cent each week thereafter, for the purpose of equitably distributing the cortificatos. It was decided on Saturday that the banks should hold them until retirement in proportion to the business done by them respectively within a definite period theroin named.

22. October 22, 1873 The Lambertville Record Lambertville, NJ
Article from The Lambertville Record, October 22, 1873

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There has been a gradual but decided improvement in financial matters during the last week. On Saturday, in New York and Philadelphia, confidence had-been largely restored and business was moving with almost its accustomed activity. It now appears that the worst effects of the panic have been limited to banking and speculative interests, and to those branches of manufactures that depend upon railroad enterprises for most of their work. These have had a pretty hard time, and many fortunes have been lost or greatly impaired. But the dealers in produce and general merchandise seem to have lost little of their trade, and as currency gets into circulation again they resume their usual business. The agricultural interests of the country have suffered little or nothing. The panic of course could not effect the amount of their products, and it has not perceptibly changed the market rates. Prices are certainly not tending downward, nor are they likely to do so. Thus the farmer, who apparently makes money slowly, is shown to be engaged in the safest of all occupations. The New York and Philadelphia banks have not yet fully resumed the payment of currency to their depositors. Those in Chicago and Cincinnati have done so, while the banks of Pittsburg never suspended. As soon as the eastern instituti ons redeem their obligations, as they must do at an early day, the usual current of affairs will be promptly resumed.

23. February 13, 1874 Chicago Daily Tribune Chicago, IL
Article from Chicago Daily Tribune, February 13, 1874

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MONEY AND COMMERCE. MONETARY. THURSDAY EVENING, Feb. 12. Notwithstanding the large amount of money absorbed in carrying grain and provisions in this market, the supply of loanable funds in the market is greater than finds employment. It is frooly offered on domand lonns nt 8 por cont, and on time loans at 10 ; but there seems scarcoly any inducement to put the rates of money lower than these figures. In this market, when a borrower wants money at all, he wants it bad enough to pay 10 or 8 per cent for it, and the difference of 1, or oven 2, por cont on short time loans would not be sufficient to induco him to embark in any onterpriso which be otherwise would not. In the Eastern markets it is different. Speculators BOOKER up 1001x0 ] U 01 [vop which fluctuato less in price than Western prodnote, and when the rate of interest ou money gets below the average rato of dividends on cortain stocks it is borrowed to carry the stocks or speculate in them. In this market, however, the supply of money, be it over 60 abundant, soldom puts the rate of money below 8 per cent on domand and 10 per cont on sixty or ninety days. What is not used at these ratos either lies idlo or Is sent East, where the Now York banks pay 4 per cent on current balances. Now York exchange continues weak at 75c por $1,000 discount. Currency shipments to the country are still pretty large. CHICAGO BANKS DISCUSSED IN LONDON. It scems that the Chicago banks are doomed to be belied in regard to the position they took during the panio last fall. Hero in the West, even our rivals, Cincinnati and St. Louis, were honorable enough to acknowledge that, while the banks in every other large city in the United States stopped currency payments, the Chicago banks continued to pay currency on demand of their depositors throughout the panic. The New York papers, however, with the exception of the Now York Journal of Commerce, ignored the fact, and said that all the banks in the United States suspended currency payments. An article on " The Panio," in Harper's Monthly Magazine, boldly asserted the falsehood that the Chicago banks suspended, as well as all others in the West. But now comes the most unconscionable misrepresentation of all, from the mouth of Mr. R. Potter, the President of the Grand Trunk RailGrand only JO " 1V 10 AUM Trunk Railway Company in London, reported in the Times of that city, Jan. 23, Mr. Potter dolivered bis report of the working and financial condition of the road. In this he took occasion to Bay that he sailed for America in September, and whon he arrived found that a great commercial storm had commenced, which swept over the whole country, reducing the value of almost overything. He then," BAYS the Times' report, described the state of things during the whole panic, both in New York and Chicago. For a whole mouth,' said Mr. Pottor, 'there 1008 only one bank that continued business in Chicago, and that was their Canadian bank, to which the American people brought their capital. If Mr. Potter is interested in the Canadian bank which has a branch in this city, he would this Sumplin Sujop 10 Suides 10J oppronold en was honorable to bring it into notice, But to tell in London a wholesale falsehood for the sake of giving his bank a prestige to which it was not entitled by any of the circumstances of the case, and in SO doing to misrepresent rival bank in the city, was not only dishonorable every in Mr. Potter, but doubly 80 from the prominent position ho occupies as President of a trunk line of railroad. If Mr. Pot- great tor had not been in Chicago during his visit to America, there might be some excuse for his statemoute, on the ground that he had heard such reports. But Mr. Potter was in Chicago, and must have known, if he know anything about Chicago during the pauic, that the First National, the Commercial National, the Morchants' National, the Corn Exchange National, the Fifth National, the Northwestern National, the Merchants' Savinga, Loan & Trust Company and several others, continued to pay currency on the demand-checks of their depositors throughout the whole panie, or and that, in order to do this, they brought

24. August 30, 1877 New-York Tribune New York, NY
Article from New-York Tribune, August 30, 1877

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EFFECT UPON BUSINESS IN THIS CITY. The failure of the State Savings Bank of Chicago had no perceptible effect here, and bankers generally regarded it as a temporary matter, not likely to create a panic or disturb the standing of other Chicago banking institutions. A private dispatch received yesterday afternoon stated that the run on the banks was not heavy, that the larger institutions were promptly meeting all demands, and that savings banks were insisting on the rule that for the withdrawal of larger amounts than $10, thirty days notice must be given. It is not believed by the officers of the leading banks in this city that there is any immediate danger of a serious time with the Chicago Banks, and in no case could it much affect banks 111 this city. The State Savings Bank of Chicago is reported to have total resources of $2,724,000, with liabilities of $2,988,339. This is believed to be a low estimate of the deficiency, which, it is thought, will be increased somewhat on account of the shrinkage in values of real estate, of which the bank holds $1,435,315. A Wall-st. banker stated that the financial embarrassment of the State Savings Bank has been a matter of discussion for a long time, and gross mismanagement has been charged against its executive officers. He stated further that D. D. Spencer, the president, was reported to have been a heavy operator in grain, and had by the decline lost the money of the depositors with which he had been operating. Mr. Spencer 18 reported as having left Chicagoon Saturday for this city, but up to last night he had not been seen or heard of, and the presumption among bankers is that he laid over in Canada, or went in a westerly direction. The members of the Produce Exchange were somewhat anxious yesterday morning to obtain full intelligence. Advices were received throughout the day, and they all tended to show that the market, as yet, had not been affected to any extent in Chicago, and there were, therefore, no fears to be entertained of trouble here. A prominent member of the Exchange stated to a TRIBUNE reporter that unless there was a very heavy run on the Chicago banks, causing a money panic, there would be no trouble 111 the produce market here. The Exchange in this city was governed almost entirely by the news from London, and not by the Chicago market, which was too speculative. If, he said, there were any heavy failures there, it would then probably have a disastrous effect on New-York merchants.

25. September 12, 1877 Clearfield Republican Clearfield, PA
Article from Clearfield Republican, September 12, 1877

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AN AWFUL "BUST Up."-The State Saving Institution, at Chicago, closed its doors on Friday. The concern is a million of dollars short. The assetts foot up at their face $2,337,496.23 while the true value is only $869,000. The amount due depositors is $3,050,017.17. All the available cash to be found in the Bank was about $24,000 out of the millions deposited by the 15,000 depositors. The Cashier, David D. Spencer, is in Europe. His own individual note for $500,000 was found among the assets. A general run is being made on all the Chicago banks and some more of them may close their doors before the panic is over. But, then Chicago can stand almost anything.