Spaulding, E. G. (Elbridge Gerry), 1809-1897

American banker; "Father of the greenbacks."

Born in Cayuga County, N.Y. in 1809; established law practice in Buffalo in the 1830s. Became involved in the development of Buffalo Harbor, the enlaragement of the Erie Canal and the municipal gas company. Instrumental in moving the Farmers' and Mechanics' Bank to Buffalo and, as its president, brought it into the national banking system. Served two terms in Congress, one as a Whig and one as a Republican; introduced bill for the issuance of legal tender treasury notes payable on demand, and for this became known as the "father of the greenbacks." Married three times; three children: Edward R., Samuel S. and Charlotte, by his second wife, Nancy Selden Strong.

Spaulding was a lawyer and politician from Erie County, N.Y. He served on the New York State Canal Commission, in the New York State Assembly and was a member of the U.S. House of Representative from Erie County.

Born in Cayuga County, N.Y. in 1809; established law practice in Buffalo in the 1830s. Became involved in the development of Buffalo Harbor, the enlargement of the Erie Canal, and the municipal gas company. Instrumental in moving the Farmers' and Mechanics' Bank to Buffalo and, as its president, brought it into the national banking system. Served two terms in Congress, one as a Whig and one as a Republican; introduced bill for the issuance of legal tender treasury notes payable on demand, and for this became known as the "father of the greenbacks."