1861 State of New York Comptroller’s Office Bond — Erie Canal Fund $10,000 (To B.F. Wheelwright)

Own a rare piece of New York’s canal finance history with this 1861 State of New York Comptroller’s Office bond, issued from the Erie Canal Fund to B.F. Wheelwright for $10,000. This collectible bond highlights the critical role of canal funding in powering 19th-century commerce—and offers classic scripophily appeal tied to a major New York banking figure.

B.F. Wheelwright: Merchant & Banker (1803–1875)

B.F. Wheelwright (Benjamin Franklin Wheelwright, October 18, 1803 – October 1875) was a prominent 19th-century American merchant and banker, best known as the long-serving president of the Greenwich Bank in New York City.

Highlights of His Career

• Born in Boston, Massachusetts, and descended from the historic Wheelwright family
• Moved to New York City in 1825 to work in trade and build a large fortune
• Retired from active mercantile trade in 1837 after major business success
• Elected president of the Greenwich Bank in 1838, leading the institution through decades of mid-19th-century growth
• Served on boards and as a trustee for major financial and civic organizations, including the United States Trust Company and the Northern Dispensary

Why This Erie Canal Fund Bond Is Collectible

• Issued in 1861 by the State of New York Comptroller’s Office
• From the Erie Canal Fund, tied to one of America’s most important transportation projects
• $10,000 face value
• Payee: B.F. Wheelwright, a respected NYC merchant and banking leader
• Strong appeal to collectors of vintage bonds, New York history, and canal-era finance

Product Details

• Issuer: State of New York Comptroller’s Office
• Year: 1861
• Fund: Erie Canal Fund
• Payee: B.F. Wheelwright
• Amount: $10,000