August 2025

The Banking Panic in New Mexico in 1924 and the Response of the Federal Reserve

Mark Carlson

Abstract:

There was a banking panic in New Mexico in early 1924 when about one-fourth of the banks in the state closed temporarily or permanently amid widespread runs. The Federal Reserve used both high profile and behind the scenes operations to calm the panic. This paper provides a history of this episode and explores how conspicuous and inconspicuous aspects of the Federal Reserve's response interacted to bolster confidence in the banking system.

Keywords: Banking Panic, New Mexico, Federal Reserve, Lender of Last Resort

DOI: https://doi.org/10.17016/FEDS.2025.064

PDF: Full Paper

Related Materials: Accessible materials (.zip)

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Last Update: August 13, 2025