1884 CBOT Membership Ticket — F. Harlow (Field, Lindley & Co.) Signed by E. Nelson Blake

Explore a noteworthy piece of Chicago’s financial past. This authentic 1884 Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) membership ticket was issued to Frank Harlow of Field, Lindley & Co. and bears the hand-signed endorsement of CBOT President E. Nelson Blake. The reverse proudly showcases an engraved vignette of the original CBOT building, situating the item at a pivotal moment in exchange history.

In the 1880s, Frank Harlow served as a member of the Chicago Provision, Grain and Stock Board, an organization often referenced in historical records as the "Call Board." While the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) dominated agricultural trading, smaller boards and “open” boards operated concurrently to handle provisions (pork and lard), grain, and stocks.

Frank Harlow was also a Director of the Chicago Board of Trade in 1899, illustrating his prominent role in Chicago’s financial community.

An excellent addition for collectors of 19th-century American finance, CBOT memorabilia, and Chicago exchange artifacts. It’s an engaging display for offices, libraries, or private collections focused on the evolution of U.S. commodity exchanges.

Provenance & Signatures

- Recipient: F. Harlow (Field, Lindley & Co.)
- President (hand-signed): E. Nelson Blake (CBOT President, 1884–1885)
- Printer: Western Bank Note & Engraving Company, Chicago

Historical Context

E. Nelson Blake led the CBOT during 1884–1885 and later became the first president of the University of Chicago Board, appointed by J.D. Rockefeller. Blake oversaw the 1885 celebration of the CBOT’s new building, then Chicago’s tallest structure, marking a milestone in exchange history.

Item Overview: 1884 CBOT Membership Ticket

• Date / Era: 1884
• Recipient: F. Harlow (Field, Lindley & Co.)
• Signature: E. Nelson Blake (CBOT President)
• Printer: Western Bank Note & Engraving Company, Chicago
• Engraving: Back features original CBOT building engraving
• Dimensions: Approximately 4" x 2.5"
• Condition: Excellent; as pictured

Engraving Context: CBOT Building

The back engraving depicts the CBOT’s original building before the 1885 construction of the newer towered structure, adding architectural and historic interest to this artifact.

Display & Collectibility

Ideal for collectors of CBOT ephemera, 19th-century brokerage documents, and Chicago/New York exchange history. A standout piece for museum-style displays, office decor, and study rooms focused on early American finance.

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