The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) is a widely recognized
stock market index that tracks the performance of 30 large, publicly traded companies listed on stock exchanges in the United States. It serves as a barometer for the overall health and performance of the
stock market. The DJIA was first calculated on May 26, 1896, and since then, it has become an important
benchmark for investors and financial analysts.
The founding members of the DJIA were chosen by Charles Dow, the co-founder of Dow Jones & Company and the
Wall Street Journal. Dow aimed to create an index that would reflect the performance of the industrial sector, which was rapidly growing during the late 19th century. The original DJIA consisted of 12 companies, representing various industries such as railroads, cotton, sugar, tobacco, and oil.
The following is a list of the founding members of the DJIA:
1. American Cotton Oil Company: Founded in 1884, this company was one of the largest cottonseed oil producers in the United States at the time. It was later acquired by Unilever in 1930.
2. American Sugar Company: Established in 1891, this company was a major player in the sugar industry. It merged with several other companies over the years and eventually became part of Amstar Holdings.
3. American Tobacco Company: Founded in 1890, this company was a dominant force in the tobacco industry. It was later broken up due to
antitrust concerns and its various components became separate entities.
4. Chicago Gas Company: This utility company provided gas services to the city of Chicago. It merged with Peoples Gas Light and Coke Company in 1897 and is now part of Integrys Energy Group.
5. Distilling & Cattle Feeding Company: Established in 1887, this company was involved in distilling and cattle feeding operations. It faced financial difficulties and was eventually liquidated in 1901.
6.
General Electric Company: Founded in 1892, General Electric (GE) is a multinational conglomerate that operates in various sectors, including power, aviation, healthcare, and renewable energy. It remains one of the largest companies in the world.
7. Laclede Gas Company: This gas utility company served the St. Louis, Missouri area. It is now known as Spire Inc. and provides natural gas services to multiple states.
8. National Lead Company: Established in 1891, this company was a major producer of lead-based products. It went through several mergers and acquisitions and is now part of NL Industries.
9. North American Company: Founded in 1890, this company was involved in various industries, including gas, electric utilities, and railroads. It faced financial difficulties and was eventually dissolved in 1913.
10. Tennessee Coal, Iron and Railroad Company: This company was involved in coal mining, iron production, and railroad operations. It faced financial difficulties and was acquired by U.S. Steel in 1907.
11. U.S. Leather Company: Established in 1893, this company was a major player in the leather industry. It faced financial difficulties and was eventually dissolved in 1952.
12. United States Rubber Company: Founded in 1892, this company was a leading manufacturer of rubber products. It went through various mergers and acquisitions and is now part of Michelin.
These twelve companies formed the original composition of the DJIA when it was first calculated in 1896. Over the years, the index has evolved, and its components have changed to reflect the changing dynamics of the U.S.
economy. Today, the DJIA consists of 30 companies that are considered leaders in their respective industries.