The original Chicago Board of Trade Building opens for business.

Standing majestically at the southern end of Chicago's famous LaSalle Street canyon, the Chicago Board of Trade Building is an iconic 44-story Art Deco skyscraper. Reaching a height of 604 feet (184 meters), this architectural marvel, completed in 1930, was originally commissioned by the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT). For decades, it served as the bustling nerve center of global commodity trading, a primary venue where prices for grains, metals, and other crucial resources were determined. Following the landmark merger of the CBOT and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange in 2007, which formed the powerful CME Group, the building continued its role as a vital financial hub. In 2012, marking a new chapter in its history, the CME Group sold this historic edifice to a consortium of prominent real estate investors, including GlenStar Properties LLC and USAA Real Estate Company.

A Legacy of Trade: From 1885 to Modern Icon

The site upon which the present Chicago Board of Trade Building stands has been synonymous with the institution since 1885, underscoring its deep historical ties to Chicago’s financial landscape. Prior to the current structure, a distinct building designed by the renowned architect William W. Boyington occupied this very location from 1885 until its demolition in 1929. This predecessor was a significant structure in its own right, holding the title of Chicago's tallest building from its completion until 1895, when its prominent clock tower was removed. However, by the 1920s, the Boyington building began to show signs of structural distress, eventually deemed unsound, leading to its necessary demolition. It was in its place that the architectural firm Holabird & Root envisioned and erected the current Art Deco masterpiece. Upon its completion in 1930, the new Chicago Board of Trade Building proudly claimed the title of Chicago's tallest building, a distinction it held for over three decades until 1965, when the modernist Richard J. Daley Center surpassed its height.

Architectural Grandeur and Cultural Significance

The current Chicago Board of Trade Building is not merely a towering structure; it is a celebrated exemplar of the Art Deco style, a testament to the optimism and ambition of the early 20th century. Its striking design features are immediately recognizable, from the elaborate sculptures and intricate large-scale stone carvings that adorn its exterior to its expansive, high-ceilinged trading floors that once buzzed with the energy of traders. Perched atop this magnificent structure is an enduring symbol of its purpose: a three-story, aluminum Art Deco statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, particularly associated with grain. This choice is deeply symbolic, reflecting the CBOT's historical roots in agricultural commodity trading. Beyond its financial past, the building remains a popular destination, frequently drawing sightseers eager to admire its beauty and serving as a dramatic backdrop for numerous movies and television productions, further cementing its place in popular culture. Its enduring significance has been formally recognized through multiple prestigious designations: it was listed as a Chicago Landmark in 1977 and subsequently honored as both a National Historic Landmark and an inductee into the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. Furthermore, its dedicated owners and management have garnered awards for their commendable efforts in preserving this architectural treasure and for their excellence in office management, ensuring its legacy continues for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Chicago Board of Trade Building?
It's an iconic Art Deco skyscraper in the Chicago Loop, originally built in 1930 to house the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) and serving as a major commodity trading venue for decades.
When was the current building constructed?
The current 44-story building was completed in 1930.
Who designed the Chicago Board of Trade Building?
It was designed by the prominent architectural firm Holabird & Root.
What is the significance of the statue on top of the building?
Crowning the building is a three-story Art Deco statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture. This symbolizes the Chicago Board of Trade's historical and primary role in agricultural commodity trading, especially grains.
Is the building still used for trading?
While the building was once the primary trading venue for the CBOT and later the CME Group, floor trading has largely been replaced by electronic systems. The building now primarily houses offices, though it remains an important symbol of the CME Group's heritage.
Can visitors go inside the Chicago Board of Trade Building?
The building is primarily an office building, but its magnificent lobby and exterior are accessible. Historically, there were public viewing areas for the trading floors, but these are generally no longer available due to the shift to electronic trading and security considerations. However, its exterior is a popular sightseeing attraction.
What is the architectural style of the building?
It is a quintessential example of Art Deco architecture, characterized by its geometric forms, elaborate ornamentation, and emphasis on verticality.
Is the Chicago Board of Trade Building a historic landmark?
Yes, it holds multiple prestigious designations. It was listed as a Chicago Landmark in 1977, and in 1978, it received the honors of being a National Historic Landmark and an honoree on the National Register of Historic Places.