Frequently Asked Questions: The Field Foundation
What is the Field Foundation of Illinois?
The Field Foundation is a private, independent foundation that supports community empowerment through:
Is the Foundation related to the Marshall Field family?
The Foundation’s origins go back to 1940 under the leadership Marshall Field III, grandson to the famous department store merchant. In 1962, the Foundation officially became the Field Foundation of Illinois under the leadership of Field III’s son, Marshall Field IV.
How can an organization apply for funding?
Visit the Grantmaking section on this site, which will explain the Foundation’s organizational requirements.
How was the Foundation funded?
In 1965, Marshall Field IV contributed $8 million dollars to the Field Foundation of Illinois. In 1969, the Field building located at 135 S. La Salle Street in Chicago was sold for $32.5 million. Mr. Field’s contribution plus the profit of the sale of the Field building, a total of about $19.45 million, were set up as an endowment and transferred to the Foundation’s assets.
Is the Field Foundation affiliated with Macy’s department store?
No. In fact, the Marshall Field’s department store was sold to a British company in the early 1980’s.
What is The Field Foundation’s relationship to the Field Museum?
The Field Museum is a relative so to speak. In order to house the exhibits and collections assembled for 1893 Chicago World’s Fair for future generations, Marshall Field funded the establishment of a museum. Originally titled the Columbian Museum of Chicago in honor of its origins, it wasn’t until 1905 that it was renamed after its first benefactor, Marshall Field.