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 Articles Indexed by TopicFranklin County : Agriculture/Commerce/The EconomyAgriculture | Local Business | State/Local Economy | National Economy | Railroads Note: When you select an article from the list below you will be taken to the appropriate page of the newspaper. You may need to scroll down in order to find the particular article you are interested in reading. |
Franklin Repository, July 12, 1865, p. 2, c. 4: "The Rust And Weevil In Wheat."
A letter from yet another farmer who planted Broughton wheat, rather than the Mediterranean type that was ravaged by the
weevil, and is quite satisfied with the results.
Valley Spirit, June 19, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "The Coming Crops Of This Country."
With all signs indicating that this year's harvest will be "plentiful," and the prospect of the nation's "reconstruction
on the basis of the Constitution eminently near," the article contends that the country will "soon emerge from under the cloud
by which it is overshadowed, and resume its march toward a pinnacle of greatness."
Franklin Repository, July 12, 1865, p. 3, c. 4: "Finance and Trade."
Despite their lackluster performance recently on the stock market, the oil business and oil stocks have a promising future,
says the article. The article also includes information pertaining to the performances of the National Bank of Chambersburg
and the First National Bank of Greencastle over the past quarter.
Franklin Repository, August 2, 1865, p. 2, c. 5: "Imperial City."
The article reports on the development of Imperial City, which was founded by the Imperial Oil Company. Under the guidance
of its president, A. K. McClure, the company has steadily expanded its operations.
Franklin Repository, August 9, 1865, p. 3, c. 3: "Finance and Trade."
The article focuses on a host of issues pertaining to Franklin county, including the state of the local oil industry, the
resumption of business at the Carlisle Deposit Bank following the suicide of its Cashier, and the appearance of a new one-dollar
counterfeit note that is reportedly close to a perfect match with the genuine issue.
Franklin Repository, August 23, 1865, p. 3, c. 1: "Local Items--Rather Encouraging."
The piece reports that several businesses have rebounded since the burning of Chambersburg in 1864.
Franklin Repository, July 5, 1865, p. 3, c. 4: "Finance and Trade."
The Supreme Court of Pennsylvania has handed down a decision that will have widespread implications in the manner in which
bonds and loans are issues by towns and counties in the state.
Franklin Repository, August 9, 1865, p. 3, c. 2: "Taxable Income."
Lists local taxable income.
Valley Spirit, August 16, 1865, p. 3, c. 1: "Local and Personal--Taxable Incomes."
Lists Franklin county residents and their taxable incomes.
Valley Spirit, September 20, 1865, p. 2, c. 4: "A Shoddy Speculation Scheme."
Provides the details of a scheme devised by iron manufacturers to increase the duty on imported iron, a plan that would greatly
increase their profit margin.
Franklin Repository, October 11, 1865, p. 3, c. 2: "Local Items--Taxable Incomes."
A listing of the taxable incomes from the districts of Montgomery, Warren, Peters, St. Thomas, Hamilton, Letterkenny, Fannett,
and Metal, all of which are in Franklin county.
Valley Spirit, October 25, 1865, p. 2, c. 4: "The Shenandoah Valley."
States that a considerable amount of property has come on the market in Virginia since the end of the war, particularly in
the Shenandoah Valley. While unfortunate for the farmers of Virginia, the glut has driven down land prices and lured many
residents from the Pennsylvania side of the valley to relocate further South.
Valley Spirit, November 8, 1865, p. 2, c. 2: "Alleged Swindle in the Oil Business."
The article asserts that incidents of fraud have increased substantially with the growth of the oil industry in Pennsylvania,
as con men descend on the state in search of easy riches.
Valley Spirit, November 22, 1865, p. 2, c. 7: "Latest by Mails!"
The brief article reports on the federal authorities' reaction to the numerous cases of fraud involving the petroleum industry
in Pennsylvania.
Valley Spirit, January 31, 1866, p. 3, c. 1: "Local and Personal--What Franklin County Pays."
Contains the Auditor General's report on the taxes paid to the State Treasury by the residents and businesses of Franklin
county in 1865.
Valley Spirit, August 1, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Pennsylvania--Her Duty To The Union."
Labeling Pennsylvania the "Keystone of the Federal Arch," the article expounds on the necessity of restoring the Union not
only for political considerations but also because "all of [the state's] material interests point in the same way."
Franklin Repository, April 17, 1867, p. 3, c. 2: "Local Items--Important to Tax Payers."
The articles provides an abstract of the principal provisions contained in the amended Internal Revenue bill.
Valley Spirit, August 21, 1867, p. 3, c. 1: "Local and Personal--Taxable Income."
Lists Franklin county residents' taxable incomes.
Valley Spirit, October 2, 1867, p. 3, c. 2: "Local and Personal-Gold."
After noting that the Bank of Chambersburg received two bars of gold sent from Montana by Col. McClure, the article mocks
the Republicans for their decision to use notes in place of gold coins.
Franklin Repository, October 30, 1867, p. 2, c. 8: "Decay in the Oil Regions."
Reports that the fortunes of Pennsylvania's oil region, formerly the darling of eastern investors, have fallen considerably
in the past three years. Where there was once a thriving industry, all that remains is "a long line of rotting derricks, and
rusted boilers and engines."
Franklin Repository, May 24, 1865, p. 1, c. 5: "The 7:30s And The End Of The War."
The article heralds the end of the war as the commencement of a period of great prosperity for the nation.
Valley Spirit, July 5, 1865, p. 2, c. 2: "National Banks."
Condemns the proposed expansion of the national banking system, as advocated by Chief Justice Chase, as a means by which
the wealthy will prosper at the expense of the common man. The article maintains that Johnson will act with "prudence and
foresight" to check the scheme before it becomes law, though it is unclear whether Congress will respond to the controversy
in the same manner.
Franklin Repository, July 19, 1865, p. 2, c. 2: "Insurance."
The insurance industry, explain the editors, has become a "thoroughly mastered science." Indeed, in this time and age, it
has become a necessity for all men who seek to protect their families from potential disaster. Still, the editors complain,
the importance of owning insurance is "very far from being properly appreciated by the people."
Valley Spirit, August 16, 1865, p. 2, c. 5: "Taxing United States Stocks."
Supports plans to tax securities as a way to insure that the burden of financing the state, county, and local governments
does not fall disproportionately upon the working masses.
Franklin Repository, August 16, 1865, p. 2, c. 2: "Our National Credit."
Given the nation's dire financial predicament, lament the editors, there are two possible solutions: the government can either
"add to our existing debt from one hundred to one hundred and fifty millions a year for several years to come" or it can alter
"our system of internal revenue" so "as to double its proceeds." According to the editors, the second option offers the most
promising route for the country. Yet, they say, should the Republicans pursue this course of action, the Democrats will seek
to "appeal to the cupidity of the people by demanding diminished taxation regardless of consequences."
Valley Spirit, August 23, 1865, p. 2, c. 4: "Unequal Taxation."
Questions the appropriateness of affording privileges to government bond-holders, particularly the clause that enables them
to avoid paying local, state, and county taxes.
Valley Spirit, August 30, 1865, p. 2, c. 2: "Plunder of the People by Paper Money."
Condemns proposals floating around Washington City to increase the quantity of currency in circulation. The author of the
piece, taken from the New York World, argues against the introduction of more paper money because it would reduce the value
of the notes and would be disastrous for the working class.
Valley Spirit, October 4, 1865, p. 1, c. 4: "The Monthly Statement of the Public Debt."
Secretary McCollogh announced that, as of August 31st, the country's public debt amounts to $2,757,253,276. The report discusses
the overall impact of the debt on the economy, and calls on the Secretary of the Treasury to continue the practice of keeping
the public informed on the state of the federal government's finances.
Valley Spirit, October 18, 1865, p. 2, c. 6: "The National Finances."
Contains a summary of an address delivered by the Secretary of the Treasury on Oct. 11th, at Fort Wayne, Indiana. McCollough's
speech touched upon critical economic issues related to the country's debt and the debate over the use of paper and coin currency.
Valley Spirit, November 1, 1865, p. 2, c. 3: "The Return of Specie Payments."
Reacting to the Secretary of the Treasury's remark that he favors a reduction in currency and a return to specie payment,
the article agrees in principle with McCollough, but cautions against any sudden policy changes that could adversely affect
the economy.
Valley Spirit, November 29, 1865, p. 2, c. 6: "Increase of Taxation."
Castigates the Republicans for endorsing a tax increase since it will most likely land on the shoulders of the laboring masses.
Valley Spirit, December 6, 1865, p. 1, c. 6: "The Financial Future."
Although there are many theories concerning the best way to control the economy and prevent it from overheating, the article
urges restraint whatever the course selected. According to the article's prognosis, the quantity of currency in circulation
must be reduced to effect any meaningful change.
Valley Spirit, December 13, 1865, p. 2, c. 6: "The Currency and High Prices."
Commends the changes pursued by the Secretary of the Treasury, which reportedly includes a proposal to fund a floating debt
and a "regular withdrawl" of the greenbacks in circulation in an attempt to reign in the spiraling rate of inflation.
Franklin Repository, January 24, 1866, p. 2, c. 7: "High Prices."
The author of the letter discusses the "financial revulsions" currently afflicting the land and the inability of the so-called
experts to find a solution to the economic distress.
Franklin Repository, January 31, 1866, p. 2, c. 5: "High Prices."
The author of the letter places blame for the current economic difficulties on the lending practices and monetary policies
of the nation's banks.
Franklin Repository, July 25, 1866, p. 2, c. 7: "The Way The Money Goes."
"Bobtail" decries the government's handling of the economy, particularly its methods for raising revenues.
Franklin Repository, September 19, 1866, p. 2, c. 6: "Public Finances."
"Bobtail" provides an explanation for the current state of the economy, particularly the recent rise in the 5-20 Bonds which
he attributes to "public affairs in Europe," and not the actions of Secretary Biddle.
Franklin Repository, November 14, 1866, p. 2, c. 1: "Money and Business."
Noting that the "present condition of the country is peculiarly sound," the editors refute the notion that an economic disaster
is looming.
Valley Spirit, November 28, 1866, p. 2, c. 5: "The Effects of a Financial Crash."
According to the article, the present crisis can be averted either by "war, foreign or domestic, or a terrible financial
crash." Of the two options, it notes, the second offers the least disruptive path to reconciliation.
Valley Spirit, December 5, 1866, p. 2, c. 7: "Finance."
Contains a copy of Secretary McCollough's Report on the National Finances.
Valley Spirit, March 20, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "Involuntary Bankruptcy."
The article discusses key aspects of the new bankruptcy bill and lists a number of clauses contained within the proposed
measure that would grant creditors considerable power over their debtors' finances.
Franklin Repository, May 29, 1867, p. 2, c. 1: "The Bankrupt Law."
The editorial lauds the passage of the congressional bankruptcy bill, which creates a uniform standard, as a key measure
to facilitate transactions that cross state lines.
Valley Spirit, August 7, 1867, p. 2, c. 3
The piece decries the current state of the American economy and ascribes blame for the predicament to the "political uncertainty"
induced by Radical rule.
Franklin Repository, October 23, 1867, p. 2, c. 8: "The National Banks."
The article speculates on the repercussions of issuing greenbacks.
Valley Spirit, November 6, 1867, p. 2, c. 3: "Money."
The editors attribute the current economic problems in England and the U. S. to the Republicans' "disastrous" economic policies.
Of particular concern for the editors is the failure to revive cotton production, which, they say, could have alleviated most
of the difficulties.
Franklin Repository, December 4, 1867, p. 2, c. 3: "Our National Credit--Mr. Stevens."
The editors tackle the thorny issue of how the government should pay back its bonds: in coin or not. To their dismay, Thad
Stevens is adamantly opposed to the policy of issuing payment in coin, which they contend amounts to "repudiation."
Franklin Repository, December 11, 1867, p. 2, c. 3: "Covert Repudiation."
The editors urge readers to consider the consequences of delaying payment on government bonds and dismiss the arguments in
favor of repudiation as dangerous to the nation's economy and future security.
Franklin Repository, October 18, 1865, p. 3, c. 3: "Railroad Accident."
In an horrific crash, nine people were killed and several others injured when the axle of the passenger car on an express
train broke four miles away from Lancaster, tearing open part of the bottom of the car and throwing four others from the track.
Franklin Repository, November 22, 1865, p. 3, c. 1: "Local Items--Our Railroad Connections."
The editorial calls on the Cumberland Valley Railroad to provide extended service to Chambersburg in order to allow her residents
quicker and easier connections to the major cities on the eastern seaboard.
Valley Spirit, December 6, 1865, p. 3, c. 1: "Local and Personal--An Important Change."
Announces that the Cumberland Railroad has added an extra daily train serving Chambersburg to its schedule.
Franklin Repository, December 20, 1865, p. 2, c. 1: "The English Railroad Raid."
The editors rage against the enterprise proposed by English capitalists to construct railway lines linking the western sections
of Pennsylvania with New York. They contend that it "would be a suicidal act" to permit an organization that is "foreign and
unfriendly" to "acquire possession" of a route that would "cripple" the state's industry and "paralyze both Pittsburg and
Philadelphia."
Valley Spirit, February 28, 1866, p. 3, c. 1: "Local and Personal--The Cumberland Valley Railroad."
The piece offers a tepid defense of the Cumberland Valley Railroad, which has recently come under attack. Directed mainly
at the line's President and Superintendent, the criticism is based primarily on "personel considerations."
Valley Spirit, March 14, 1866, p. 2, c. 4
The editorial commends Supreme Court Justice Reed's ruling in favor of the Pennsylvania Railroad Co. in its case against
the Atlantic and Great Western Railway Co.
Franklin Repository, April 18, 1866, p. 1, c. 8: "Letter From Gen. Geary."
A letter from Gen. Geary, the Union Party's gubernatorial nominee, in which he responds to a series of queries regarding
his position on the state's role in the regulation of railroads.
Valley Spirit, June 20, 1866, p. 1, c. 8
The article informs readers about an alleged swindle carried out by "lordling British financiers" who hoped to capitalize
on the growing need for railway investors.
Franklin Repository, October 23, 1867, p. 2, c. 1: "A Railroad Talk."
In light of the renewed interest in expanding railroad routes through Franklin county, the editors offer some advice: Franklin
would benefit most from a line extending from Chambersburg to Gettysburg. Should the route be built, it is believed that it
will attract "a first-class Anthracite Furnace, the business of which will exceed the whole of the present freighting on the
Cumberland Valley Railroad."
