Line chart showing BOF appropriations vs allotments from 1888 to 1909, with a large spending spike in 1896.

Appropriated by Congress Actually allotted BOF estimate requested
Appropriations ranged from $5K to $595K; allotments peaked at $654K in 1896.

1896 allotments ($654K) exceeded appropriations ($250K) by drawing on accumulated prior-year reserves. Shaded area = surplus/deficit.