As hundreds of converts arrived in Kirtland, the local economy struggled to support the new settlers.

In 1836, church leaders, hoping to alleviate the economic stresses of the poorer members, attempted to create the Kirtland Safety Society Bank. Failing to receive a charter from the State, the institution was reorganized as the Kirtland Safety Society Anti-Banking Company. The lack of a charter resulted in little or no confidence in the new institution. Within months of opening its doors, the bank failed.

Oliver Cowdery purchased printing plates in Philadelphia in 1836 to create bank notes for the Kirtland Safety Society Bank. After the state legislature refused to recognize the bank, a number of the notes were adapted to read "Kirtland Safety Society Anti-Banking Company." Look closely at the note to find the additions made to the original design.

Photo of the One Dollar Note
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