An Example of Communal Currency: The Facts About the Guernsey Market House

A historical account written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the unique financial experiment by the States of Guernsey during the early 19th century, where communal currency in the form of non-interest-bearing notes was issued to finance the construction of the Market House without incurring debt. The topic focuses on an innovative municipal approach to financing public works, evaluating its implications and effectiveness. The book narrates how the States of Guernsey successfully funded the construction of the Market House using state-issued notes rather than through loans that would incur interest. Harris compiles original documents and firsthand accounts to present a detailed overview of the project, including the initial motivations, the legal basis for issuing the notes, and the ensuing community benefits. It covers the ensuing debates and challenges faced from both within and outside the community regarding the sustainability of this financial model, documenting the eventual decline of the note system amid opposition and the rise of private banks. Throughout, the work serves as both an exploration of a significant economic experiment and a cautionary tale about currency management in civic governance.