Delaware Valley Archivists Group

 In an effort to expand the National Bankruptcy Archives' holdings in rare material predating the establishment of the nation's first bankruptcy law in 1898, the Archives recently acquired a selection of 18th and 19th century pamphlet and manuscript materials.  These materials date back to at least 1789, and document debt culture in this pre-bankruptcy era.  A common topic is the abolishment of debtor prisons, which was the standard punishment for destitution.Some of this collection is currently on display in the reference area of the Biddle Law Library.  However, if you can't make it to the onsite exhibit (or, if you would like to whet your appetite), below are images of some of our featured items.