Historic Treasure Article - September, 26, 1982
by Judith Calvert
Librarian, Vigo County Historical Society
Historic Treasure Article - September, 26, 1982
by Judith Calvert
Librarian, Vigo County Historical Society
One of the treasures of the Vigo County Historical Society is a collection of paper script, or money, issued by the state to buy lands to pay workers on the Wabash & Erie Canal.
The script, known as "blue dog," "white dog," and "bull pup," was negotiable at par value and was accepted as payment for taxes. In addition, it was used to pay private debts, but at considerable discount. Some merchants refused to accept it at any price.
Construction of the Wabash & Erie Canal began in 1832 and reached Terre Haute in 1849. The canal entered Vigo County from the north, passed through the city of Terre Haute, exited Vigo County through Pierson Township, and continued south to Evansville. Destined to obsolescence by the coming of the railroads almost before it was completed, no part of the canal was in use by 1875.
A sampling of the canal currency is displayed in the Francis Vigo Room of the Historical Museum of the Wabash Valley in an old safety deposit box from a local bank. The script and box are recent gifts to the Vigo County Historical Society from John G. Biel.
The museum is located at 1411 South Sixth Street and is open daily except Saturdays and holidays from 1 to 4 p.m.