1900, New Jersey. Stock certificate for one share of The Cuba Company. Issued to Henry Melville Whitney and signed by him on the accompanying stock power document. Signed on the front as President by Sir William C. Van Horne. A fine association of Whitney and Van Horne on a certificate issued by this historically important company.
Henry Melville Whitney (1839 – 1923). American industrialist and financier known for his involvement in various business ventures during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He played a significant role in the development of several industries, including transportation and electricity.
\WILLIAM C. VAN HORNE (1843 - 1915); Railroad executive. From a successful early career in railroad, Van Horne developed the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad system into a major competitor of James J. Hill's Great Northern. Hill was so impressed with Van Horne's skills that he recommended the latter as a director of the Canadian Pacific Railway, a position which Van Horne accepted. "The story of the building of the Canadian Pacific is mainly a history of his achievements in overcoming stupendous difficulties . . ." (DAB). A long period of success and growth followed and Van Horne resigned in 1899, only to begin a series of South American and Cuban ventures of which this Cuba Company was one.
The Cuba Company was a business entity established in the late 19th century with the primary objective of promoting and facilitating economic and industrial development in Cuba. Founded in 1898, the company was a result of the political and economic changes in Cuba following the Spanish-American War, which ended Spanish colonial rule in Cuba. The Cuba Company aimed to support the reconstruction and modernization of the country's infrastructure and economy, particularly in the areas of agriculture, transportation, and utilities.
One of the most notable projects undertaken by The Cuba Company was the construction of the Havana Central Railway, which played a crucial role in improving transportation and trade within Cuba. The company also invested in sugar production and other agricultural enterprises, helping to revitalize the Cuban economy. However, The Cuba Company's presence and activities were not without controversy. Its operations and influence in Cuba were subject to scrutiny, and it faced allegations of monopolistic practices, which led to tensions with both the Cuban government and the United States. Eventually, in the early 20th century, the company's assets and interests were nationalized by the Cuban government, marking the end of The Cuba Company's role in the country's development.
