Thread by @jfc_3_

CRAZY STORY of "The Wheat King", or 'Old Hutch'. History can really read like fiction at times.

Trust me, and read the entire thread. Fascinating stuff.

The story begins with rumors of Old Hutch's death making their way to the Exchange, and Wheat prices falling as a result.

2/ Many sold their wheat positions in a panic, but some noticed Old Hutch's brokers buying up these positions.

The King wrote from his hospital bed:

"Old Hutch is far from dead... all of the wheat sold this morning is now in the hands of Mr. Hutchinson, where it will remain."

3/ From his hospital bed, Old Hutch continued to run the wheat markets as if he were still in his office.

4/ It was divulged that Hutch had slipped down a flight of iron stairs. He had broken his shoulder, and dislocated his spine.

He then FIRED the NURSES provided in hospital, and replaced them with his own BROKERS.

Because stockbrokers were more qualified than nurses...??!!

5/ For three weeks the Wheat King ran the markets from his hospital room, despite his serious injuries.

Finally, in early August, the King returned to the pits.

6/ Upon his return, the floor of the exchange broke out into celebrations and cheers.

As a sign of respect for their King of the Exchange, they placed a THRONE in the north end of the trading hall.

Can you imagine there being a THRONE on the NYSE floor today??

Fin/ What an insane story.

Reminds me of the Dad in Succession running his empire from a hospital bed.