The Franklin Mint History Of The United States, 1776-1973
Manufacturer
The Franklin Mint
CultureAmerican
DateNo Date
MediumSilver
DimensionsOverall: 1 3/4 in. (45 mm.)
Credit LineGift of Dr. Eugene F. Poutasse
Object number76.81.46
Not on view
DescriptionOne of collection of 200 silver medals.The 1821 medal: Santa Fe Trail Opened to Trade
When Mexico became independent in 1821, the Spanish embargo on trade with the Southwest was lifted. William Becknell left Franklin, Missouri with four men and pack animals carrying trade goods. Santa Fe was rich in silver, wool and mules but needed all kinds of manufactured articles. When Becknell returned in 1822 he was able to report good profits, and several expeditions were outfitted, including one by Becknell with three wagons. By the 1840's, a couple thousand wagons of goods were being taken each year and the trail remained an important trade route until the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway was completed in 1880.
