Currency issued by the State Bank of Madison, the first bank organized under the Banking Law of 1851. Unlike other Wisconsin banks of the period, none of which used local references to decorate their notes, the State Bank graphically proclaimed its identification with the symbol of statehood. At a time when visual images were limited, the association between a Madison business and the Capitol is striking. The engraving also makes clear why the first Capitol was sometimes referred to as Doty’ Washbowl.

This capitol was much more than a center for state business. During its early years it was used as a dance hall, theater, church, meeting hall, and funeral parlor. (Used courtesy SHSW Museum)

Banks and banking | Capitol | State Bank of Madison