In an effort to expand the National Bankruptcy Archives' holdings in rare material predating the establishment of the nation's first major bankruptcy law in 1898, the Archives has begun to acquire a selection of 18th and 19th century pamphlet and manuscript materials. Our holdings presently date back to 1789, and document debt culture in the pre-bankruptcy era. A common topic concerns the abolishment of debtor prisons, which existed from Colonial times to approximately the mid-1800s.
Some of this collection is currently on display in the reference area of the Biddle Law Library. However, if you can't make it to the onsite exhibit (or, if you would like to whet your appetite), below are images of some of our featured items.
If you are interested in learning more about this collection or any of our holdings, please contact Jordon Steele or stop by the Archives.
