1893 Bank of Montreal (BMO) Chicago Check — K.H. Smith, $280.50 (John Hewitt)

Own a wonderfully rare slice of financial history with this 1893 Bank of Montreal Chicago check, issued to K.H. Smith from John Hewitt for $280.50. Printed by Thayer & Jackson Stationary Co., Chicago, this historical check captures a real snapshot of late-1800s commerce and banking—perfect for collectors of vintage paper ephemera, checks, and U.S./Canadian financial history.

Why This Antique Check Is a Standout Collectible

• Authentic 1893 document: A true dated artifact from the late 19th century.
• Clear payer/payee details: John Hewitt (issuer) to K.H. Smith (recipient).
• Document value & era: Dated financial instrument for $280.50.
• Printed in Chicago: Marked as printed by Thayer & Jackson Stationary Co.
• Connects to a major bank: BMO’s Chicago roots add extra collector appeal.

Bank of Montreal (BMO) in the United States: Chicago Roots & Expansion

BMO’s Connection to Chicago

BMO’s early historical ties to Chicago began in 1861, when local grain merchants invited the bank to open an agency to help finance export trade. Later, prominent Chicago finance figures—like Norman Wait Harris—helped shape the city’s banking landscape through Harris’s bond brokerage legacy.

Landmark U.S. Growth

In September 1984, the Bank of Montreal completed its major acquisition of Harris Bankcorp, one of the largest U.S. banking deals at the time. That milestone helped establish BMO as a notable North American financial institution spanning both Canada and the U.S.

Modern BMO Footprint (For Context)

Today, BMO Bank, N.A. operates as a major U.S. national bank headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, serving personal, commercial, and wealth management clients through a large network of branches and ATMs across the United States.

Ideal For Collectors & Gift-Givers

This 1893 check makes a fantastic addition to collections of vintage checks, antique financial documents, banking memorabilia, Chicago history, and Bank of Montreal ephemera. It’s also a thoughtful gift for history lovers and anyone who appreciates the charm of authentic, hand-era paperwork.

Add a Piece of 1893 Commerce to Your Collection

Bring home a rare, tangible link to late-1800s banking and trade. Order this vintage Bank of Montreal Chicago check today and enjoy the story behind the numbers.