Unveiling the Gilded Age's Financial Secrets: 'Banking on the Past'

Step back in time to an era of burgeoning wealth, dramatic economic shifts, and the intricate world of 19th-century finance. The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum (LMMM) is proud to announce the grand opening of its captivating new exhibit, “Banking on the Past: 19th-Century Finance,” launching on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at 12:00 PM.

This groundbreaking exhibition, expertly curated by Paul D. Miller, promises an immersive journey into the economic landscape that shaped the Gilded Age, revealing how finance impacted everything from grand fortunes to daily household lives.

The exhibit delves deep into the fascinating evolution of banking, currency, and financial systems during a pivotal century in American history.

Visitors will gain invaluable insights into the intricacies of financial instruments, the rise of powerful industrialists, and the dramatic economic crises that punctuated the period. A significant focus will be placed on the Panic of 1873, a monumental financial downturn that profoundly affected both national and international markets, including the very fortunes tied to the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion itself.

This comprehensive exploration will connect the vast macro-economic forces to the personal stories and decisions of the era’s influential figures.

Highlighting the visionary genius of LeGrand Lockwood, the original owner of the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion, the exhibit showcases his immense financial prowess and the strategies he employed to build his vast empire.

Lockwood, a titan of industry and finance, exemplified the ambition and daring spirit of the Gilded Age. His story, interwoven with the broader financial narrative of the 19th century, offers a unique lens through which to understand the challenges and opportunities of the time. The exhibit also illuminates how such economic upheavals, like the Panic of 1873, reverberated through society, influencing commerce, social structures, and individual well-being.

Patsy Brescia, Chairman of the LMMM Board of Trustees, expressed her excitement for the upcoming exhibit: “The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum is thrilled to introduce ‘Banking on the Past,’ a truly enlightening exhibition that bridges the past and the present.

It offers our visitors a rare opportunity to explore the foundational economic principles that laid the groundwork for today’s financial systems, all through the engaging lens of the 19th century and the Mansion’s own history.”

Curator Paul D. Miller elaborated on the exhibit’s educational value, stating, “This exhibit provides a rare glimpse into the complex financial world of the 19th century.

We believe it will not only educate but also spark curiosity about how historical economic events continue to influence our contemporary financial landscape. It’s an essential exploration for anyone interested in history, economics, or the enduring legacy of the Gilded Age.”

The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum, a National Historic Landmark, continues to serve as a beacon of cultural and historical preservation.

Its mission is dedicated to the preservation of the Mansion as an architectural marvel and a testament to the artistic and industrial achievements of the era. Through compelling exhibits, educational programs, and community events, LMMM strives to enrich the lives of its visitors and the broader community by fostering a deeper appreciation for history and the arts.

Don't miss the chance to embark on this fascinating journey into the heart of 19th-century finance.

“Banking on the Past” promises to be a thought-provoking and visually rich experience that uncovers the intricate financial threads woven into the fabric of American history. Plan your visit to the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum and prepare to be enlightened!