The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Company Ten Dollar Note
Between 1837 and 1866, a period known as the “Free Banking Era,” lax federal and state banking laws permitted virtually anyone to open a bank and issue currency. Paper money was issued by states, cities, counties, private banks, railroads, stores, churches, and individuals.
The term “wildcat bank” referred to the remote locations of some banks, more accessible to wildcats than people. When a bank “went broke,” the currency they issued became worthless. The era ended with the passing of the National Bank Act of 1863.
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Company was located in Maryland. Tolls were charged for cargo on the canal and frequently changed; these were the notes used to pay the tolls.
The term “wildcat bank” referred to the remote locations of some banks, more accessible to wildcats than people. When a bank “went broke,” the currency they issued became worthless. The era ended with the passing of the National Bank Act of 1863.
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Company was located in Maryland. Tolls were charged for cargo on the canal and frequently changed; these were the notes used to pay the tolls.
Artwork Details
- Title: The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Company Ten Dollar Note
- Date: 1840
- Medium: Engraving
- Dimensions: sheet: 3 x 6 3/4 in. (7.6 x 17.1 cm.)
- Classifications: Prints, Ephemera
- Credit Line: The Elisha Whittelsey Collection, The Elisha Whittelsey Fund, 1951
- Object Number: 51.508.1(1)
- Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints
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Multiple artists/makers
ca. 1890–1896
Auguste Edouart
1842–44
David Lucas
John Constable
1830
Mary Cassatt
Monsieur LeRoy
1890–91
Edgar Degas
1892
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